Spring 2018 - PSYC 385 D100

Evolution and Psychology (3)

Class Number: 8695

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 21, 2018
    Sat, 8:30–10:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 201W: Introduction to Research Methods in Psychology

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Topics such as altruism, parental care, mate choice, sex differences in behavior, aggression, dominance and territoriality are considered from an evolutionary perspective. The role of heredity and environment in the development of these behaviors is also discussed.

COURSE DETAILS:

In this course, we will examine the extent to which evolutionary theory can serve as a satisfactory explanation for human behaviour. Short answer: it can. Longer answer: it definitely can. Even longer answer: well, let's not be too hasty. To help us understand how and why, we will review and apply the main evolutionary theories in play in the behavioural sciences. And we will discuss a variety of topics from an evolutionary perspective, such as social life, sex, death, religion, popular culture, the meaning of life, and the likely end of our species.

Grading

  • Mid-Term Exam: 30%
  • Writing Assignments: 40%
  • Final Exam: 30%

NOTES:

Office hours:  TBA

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

There is no textbook for this course. Instead, a set of readings available through the library databases will be used, two of which will serve as the basis for the written assignments.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS