Introduction to Psychology: Exploring Humans, Non-Human Animals, and Diversity Science

The subject matter of this program – the science of the mind and behavior – is something that all students are intimately involved with on a daily basis, whether they know it or not. These interactions include how we recognize something or someone we see or hear, being influenced subconsciously by those around us, or how we learn and remember new information. How and why do our personalities differ? Just how does the brain relate to behavior? Understanding such concepts can help us address and further understand ourselves, our community, and many issues in society today. We will also recognize that our understanding of psychology does not end with humans. Do non-human animals have consciousness, intelligence, or emotion? Together we will explore these types of processes through multiple forms including readings, activities, discussions, documentaries, and our own observations.

This program will act as an introduction to the study of psychology, in both humans and non-human animals, as a science and an art. Core topics include: scientific methods, learning, memory, consciousness, language and thought, intelligence, development, personality and social psychology, perception and sensation, neuroscience, cognition, emotion, evolution, sexuality, psychological disorders and their treatment. This program will also cover current empirical investigations into the nature and function of behavior and how the psychological concepts described may (or perhaps may not) be reflected in real world examples.

We will be incorporating diversity science into our view of psychology. Diversity science is an emerging field of study that examines how ethnicity, gender, culture, socio‐economic class, and other group differences are created, perceived, and maintained. Here, we will explore diversity in psychology and how diversity, voice, and representation reflect our understanding of human behavior based on past and present research.

By the end of the term, students will have the skills to: (1) Identify and describe key theories in the core areas of psychology, (2) Interpret, critically evaluate, and discuss scientific research on human and animal behavior, (3) Relate and apply the findings to experiences from daily life, (4) Judge whether and how science can be useful in addressing specific social problems.

This program will repeat in Spring. Students should not take both quarters.