PSY 220 - Disinformation and Propaganda

The course will explore the psychological science behind cognitive biases and heuristics that make us vulnerable to misinformation and disinformation. We will examine select historic propaganda campaigns but will focus primarily on the recent and ongoing Russian propaganda. We will also work to address and compensate for the constraints of human cognition that have been exploited by disinformation campaigns. In addition to covering the psychology of propaganda and cognitive biases, the course will also incorporate game theory research from the judgment and decision-making field, including tragedy of the commons, public goods, and social cooperation. The goal of the course is for students to recognize their biases, practice techniques for identifying misinformation and disinformation, and develop a model of ethical decision-making for sharing information.

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group III
Instructional Method: Conference
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
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.