The Anthropology Section of the New York Academy of Sciences, which has its origins in the participation of anthropologists in the Academy at the end of the 19th century, has long served as a forum for discussion and debate about what it means to be human. It has been an innovative, progressive voice drawing on knowledge about archeology, human biology, linguistics, and socio-cultural anthropology to contribute to cutting edge perspectives on the human condition. With funding from the Wenner-Gren foundation the Anthropology Section hosts a monthly free Distinguished Lecturer Series that engage scholars, students, and a broader public in the exploration of yearly topical theme.