Undergraduate Courses
PSYC 3341: Psychology of Morality
How do we decide between right and wrong? When do we behave well, when do we behave badly, and why? In this course, we will explore moral judgment and behavior—the evolution and development of human morality, its psychological and brain basis, and moral “pathology” in clinical populations. Topics: emotion; mind perception; self-concept; motivated cognition; group membership; and connections to religion, politics, and the law.
PSYC 4446: Social Neuroscience
Human beings are fundamentally social creatures. In this seminar, we will examine topics explored in classic and contemporary social psychology using the tools of neuroscience, such as functional neuroimaging and transcranial magnetic stimulation. Topics: social connection and rejection; conforming to crowds and obeying authority; dehumanization and objectification; stereotypes and group membership; first impressions and social expectations; prosocial behavior; sacred values; self-control; the future self.
Graduate Seminars
PSYC 5540: Advanced Topics in Social Psychology
This graduate seminar is designed to provide students with an overview of current themes and research in social psychology. Topics: social cognition; social influence; social interaction and group dynamics; close relationships; stereotypeS and prejudice; attitudes; prosocial behavior; the self and free will.
PSYC 5541: Moral Emotions
What is the relationship between morality and emotion? Do uniquely moral emotions exist? In what contexts do moral emotions arise? This course explores the nature of emotion and the nature of morality and their relationship, from the perspectives of social, cognitive, developmental psychology and neuroscience. Topics: emotion regulation; prosocial behavior; intergroup attitudes; perspective-taking. Jointly taught with Professor Jim Russell.
PSYC 5543: Current Topics in Moral Psychology
In this graduate seminar, students will engage with current themes and research on moral psychology. Topics: intentions and motivations; status, class, and power; punishment and forgiveness; free will and the self.