Course Overview: Comprehensive introduction to the study of the human mind covering a wide range of topics.
Topics Covered
Main Areas of Study:
Neuroscience: Study of the mind through the brain.
Developmental Psychology: Focus on how individuals grow and learn.
Cognitive Psychology: Computational approach to understanding thought processes.
Social Psychology: Study of behavior in groups.
Clinical Psychology: Study of mental health and illness.
Key Questions:
Differences between genders.
Language learning in animals.
Factors influencing overeating.
Group behavior and madness.
Trustworthiness of childhood memories.
Factors contributing to depression.
Course Structure
Lectures: Two per week with a requirement to attend and complete readings.
Readings:
Textbook: Psychology by Peter Gray (5th edition).
Reader: The Norton Reader, edited by Gary Marcus.
Available at Labyrinth bookstore and online.
Exams: Midterm and Final (held on the last day of class). Exams will include multiple choice and short answer questions. Previous exams will be provided for review.
Assignments:
Weekly questions to be submitted to teaching fellows (starting week 3).
Short book review near the end of the semester.
Experimental participation requirement to gain experience in psychological research.
Tips for Success
Attend all classes and keep up with readings (ideally before class).
Form study groups for collaboration.
Engage with professors and teaching fellows for support.
Utilize office hours and email for questions.
Course Goals
Understand the workings of the human mind and its relation to real-world issues.
Explore how the discipline of psychology overlaps with other fields such as philosophy, economics, and neuroscience.
Specific Topics to be Covered
The Brain: Examining the relationship between brain damage and consciousness, using Terri Schiavo's case as an example.
Child Development: Investigating how knowledge is acquired and the influence of nature vs. nurture.
Attractiveness: Exploring the scientific understanding of what makes a face attractive.
Morality: Discussing concepts of good and evil, including examples of notorious figures.
Mental Illness: Focusing on prevalent disorders such as depression and anxiety, and exploring rare conditions like Capgras and Cotard syndromes.
Guest Lecturers
Dr. Marvin Chun: Cognitive neuroscience expert.
Dr. Susan Nolen-Hoeksema: Authority on depression.
Kelly Brownell: Focus on obesity and eating disorders.
Dr. Peter Salovey: Discussion on love and relationships.
Conclusion
Encouragement to reach out for support and to engage with the material and peers throughout the course.