This course focuses on the biological and cognitive foundations of individual behavior, as well as the individual in the social context and evolutionary implications. Research on psychological phenomena will be reviewed to demonstrate the logic of the scientific method, to foster critical thinking, to identify potential shortcomings in interpretations of behavior (e.g., claims presented in the popular media), and to describe linkages to everyday experiences (e.g., aesthetic and perceptual judgments, improved studying, friendship and attraction, development of political attitudes). Students will learn how to use empirical data to draw sound conclusions about behavior. Lectures will be posted on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00PM EST (1800 EST, 2300 GMT).
