This manual covers fundamental issues of modern biology (the essence of life, its molecular basis, genetic information, ontogenesis, evolution) and anthropology (the place of man in nature, anthropogenesis, phylogenetic heritage in human behavior, the evolution of the brain and psyche). The place of anthropology in the system of human studies is shown, ways of synthesizing natural science and humanitarian approaches to the study of man are considered. As an example of such a synthesis, material on ecology and systems analysis is presented. The extreme concentration of information and breadth of coverage of the material make the book a good assistant for students, teachers and researchers in a variety of specialties, primarily anthropologists, psychologists, and medical workers. It can also be used as a reference when studying anthropology, concepts of natural science, ecology, general biology in special courses devoted to human nature.