Spring 2024 - PSYC 385 D100
Evolution and Psychology (3)
Class Number: 1897
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Jan 8 – Apr 12, 2024: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Timothy Racine
tracine@sfu.ca
Office: Zoom
Office Hours: Fridays 9:00-10:00am
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Prerequisites:
PSYC 201W.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Topics such as altruism, parental care, mate choice, sex differences in behaviour, aggression, dominance and territoriality are considered from an evolutionary perspective. The role of heredity and environment in the development of these behaviours 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. To do so, we will review and apply the main evolutionary theories in play in the behavioural sciences. We will discuss a variety of topics from an evolutionary perspective, such as social life, the family, sex, mortality, religion, health, popular culture, and the meaning of life.
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
The primary goals of this course are to enhance individual written and oral language skills, analytic and research skills, and interpersonal communication skills. Evaluation will consist of two pass/fail reaction assignments (5% each; due Jan 19, Jan 26) and three article evaluation and application assignments (30% each; due Feb 16, Mar 15, Apr 12).
Grading
- Writing Assignments: 100%
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
There is no textbook for this course. The materials will be available through the course Canvas site.
REQUIRED READING NOTES:
Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/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