[Anthropogenesis: phylogeny in the context of the environment--a theme for seminars in anatomy]

Aspects of clinical anatomy and neuroanatomy are by far the main subjects of seminars in anatomy held at the Institute of Anatomy of the Free University of Berlin. In the winter term (1995/96) two courses dealing with human phylogeny in the context of the environment have been offered. The engagement and ambition shown by the students was much higher than in traditional courses. The aim, course and results of the seminars are presented. Based on our positive experience, we propose to broaden teaching in anatomy by including interdisciplinary themes and aspects. This should allow a more comprehensive view on man, should help bringing the students in early contact with scientific work and presenting anatomy in its widest context and in scientific history.