Mission Statement

Maryland Essays in Human Biodiversity is commited to providing an open forum on topics in human biodiversity for young students and researchers. We seek to give voice to fresh ideas and perspectives on human variation, especially from those who can approach the topic from a personal standpoint.

History and Purpose

In the spring of 2002, a small group of students met with a faculty member at the University of Maryland to create an online website devoted to presenting students’ perspectives on topics regarding human variation and the associated social implications. Undergraduate students at the University prepared essays discussing topics including race and gender differences, the Deaf culture, eugenics programs, human sexuality, and the biological basis of criminality. These essays were soon compiled into a printed journal, Maryland Essays in Human Biodiversity, and the first issue was published in May 2002.

Unlike many other journals, Maryland Essays in Human Biodiversity is devoted as a forum for the ideas of students ranging from undergraduates to postdoctoral fellows who can share personal experiences and fresh perspectives on topics of human variation. The essays prepared and submitted to the journal encompass a wide range of topics from psychology to physiology, yet are written in a fashion that is readily understood by both scientists and the general public.
There is a growing emphasis on biological and cultural diversity, yet there has been very little literature devoted to discussing various perspectives on human variation from a fresh, multidisciplinary viewpoint as provided by students who are personally affected by many of the societal consequences of biodiversity. We feel that Maryland Essays in Human Biodiversity fills this void by providing a valuable opportunity for these students to present their ideas on human variation and a niche for their contribution to the community.