Do you agree or disagree with Diamond's theory that environments have shaped human histories? Why or why not? Are there other theories that can be used to explain the phenomenon that Diamond discusses?

Using the discussion of Pizarro's conquest of the Incas in Chapter 3 and Diamond's theory, explain why the Spanish were able to conquer the Incas. Why did the Incas not conquer the Spanish or invade Europe?

Compare and contrast the situations that developed when Austronesians invaded the Polynesian islands and New Guinea. Why was New Guinea in a better position to resist being conquered or absorbed?

How did food production develop in societies? What factors helped make food production possible?

Why was food production important for the development of "Guns, Germs, and Steel?"

How did animal domestication factor into the development of societies?

Using examples, discuss how the axis of a continent...