PSY 326 - Altruism and Self-Interest

This course will explore the literature on altruism, social cooperation, and other prosocial behavior to contrast with the literature on self-interested, competitive, or antisocial behavior. Incredible technological and social achievements have been attained through human cooperation, and the need for further cooperation remains dire as we face climate change, food insecurity, and potential future pandemics. By looking at social cooperation as cognitive scientists, we will work to understand what conditions promote cooperation and prosocial behavior in our institutions and society at large. The course incorporates empirical and theoretical papers from cognitive psychology (e.g., judgment & decision-making), social psychology (e.g., in-group bias, conformity and obedience) and behavioral economics (e.g., game theory). The weekly lab component provides an opportunity to get hands-on research experience exploring classic or novel questions.

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group III, Distribution Group III-Data Collection and Analysis
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
Restriction(s): Psychology and neuroscience majors only
Instructional Method: Lecture-conference-laboratory
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Notes: Registration priority is given to intended/declared psychology or neuroscience majors.
Group Distribution Learning Outcome(s):

Use and evaluate quantitative data or modeling, or use logical/mathematical reasoning to evaluate, test or prove statements.
Given a problem or question, formulate a hypothesis or conjecture, and design an experiment, collect data, or use mathematical reasoning to test or validate it.
Collect, interpret, and analyze data.