Course Objectives for Psychology and Contemporary Social Issues (PSY 350I)
 

This course is focused on an interdisciplinary approach to the causes, consequences, and solutions of interpersonal and intergroup aggression, terrorism, and genocide as well as a discussion of the psychology of religion. The course also uses the same interdisciplinary approach in dealing with other important current social issues such as economic inequality, immigration, crime, the environment, etc.  A detailed examination of these topics will be made through text readings, original research articles, class lectures, class discussions, and films.

This course has four key objectives.  The first is to expand your knowledge about human behavior using an interdisciplinary approach (i.e., drawing from social psychology, political science, economics, biology, religion, history, etc.).  To accomplish this goal, the course will emphasize (1) acquisition of knowledge that goes beyond mere memorization of facts and moves students to an understanding of and ability to use certain fundamental concepts and principles involved in human behavior, (2) an awareness of the major problems and issues facing humankind, and (3) the capacity to critically interpret research findings.

Second, this class seeks to foster respect for human diversity, particularly with regard to matters of gender, race and ethnicity.  Through class lectures, films, papers, and exams, there will be a focus on the nature of human diversity and attitudes toward diversity.  A major goal of this class, therefore, is to enable students to

(1) understand the forces that create group differences in patterns of social behavior, (2) understand and tolerate the behavior of other people, particularly that of members of the diverse array of groups and social categories to which they do not belong, (3) recognize the limits in generalizing psychological research to all cultural/gender/ethnic/age groups, and (4) understand the dynamics of intergroup relationships, conflict, and cooperation.

Third, this course allows students many opportunities to develop their writing skills through the completion of 3 short papers as well as the essay portions of examinations.  The ability to effectively communicate is an important skill and students will receive feedback from the professor to facilitate this process.

Fourth, this class emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills.  This includes (1) the ability to explain human behavior (i.e., to identify and use existing knowledge and concepts to identify the causes of the behavior which has been described as well as to critically evaluate the evidence and arguments which have been used to support this analysis), (2) the application of existing facts, concepts, or principles to understand some new behavior or problem, and (3) the acquisition of a critical attitude toward all generalizations, and an ability to evaluate them on the basis of the evidence upon which they claim to be based as well as the development of intelligent skepticism about unfounded "truths" presented in the mass media.  To accomplish this goal, this course emphasizes the understanding and interpretation of research findings and an ability to evaluate their usefulness.

Finally, although attendance will not be taken, you are expected to be present at all scheduled class meetings and actively contribute to class discussions.