Evolutionary Psychology

Although we will utilize a textbook, our approach in this course will not generally be a traditional textbook approach.  My goal will not be to provide a comprehensive overview of research and theory in evolutionary psychology, but mainly to get you to understand and appreciate its general perspective and how this differs from most other contemporary approaches in psychology.  Toward this end, Dawkins provides an overview of modern evolutionary theory, particularly as it applies to behavior (though little of it concerns human behavior, at least directly).  This book is a true "classic," and I think you will find it interesting and thought-provoking.  The Buss book is the first true textbook for the field of evolutionary psychology.  I will let Buss provide the general overview of the field, and I will focus in class mainly on specific topics that are of particular interest to me.  Although the course is not designed as a seminar, and will be too large to be run that way, I would like to have as much open discussion in class as possible.
 

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One other assignment:  Shortly after Spring Break, I will ask you to turn in an informal and brief (e.g., 1-2 pages) paper proposal summarizing what you would like to write your paper about (or perhaps two alternative topics if you are undecided).  This will give me an opportunity to provide some specific feedback and guidance in advance, and to make sure you are on the right track.  I strongly encourage you to do this earlier -- the sooner the better -- but the due date (March 21) is the latest the proposal will be accepted without penalizing your paper grade.

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Tentative Schedule of Lectures and Readings

Week of

Read for Class

Topics