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 through the lens of cognitive psychology, 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 and decision-making), social psychology (e.g., in-group bias, conformity and obedience) and behavioral economics (e.g., game theory).

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group III
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
Restriction(s): Psychology and neuroscience majors only
Instructional Method: Lecture-conference
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Notes: Registration priority is given to intended/declared psychology or neuroscience majors.
Not offered: 2024-25
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.