This course provides an in-depth discussion about the possible prehistoric and evolutionary origins of human behaviour, brain and cognition. The course calls for intrinsically motivated students who enjoy looking deeper into possible functional and evolutionary mechanisms explaining human behaviour. As the course takes 'a capita selecta approach' it will also provide participants with an opportunity to further improve their presentation skills and scientific writing abilities. |
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Many human abilities and behaviours have a genetic basis that supported the survival of our ancient ancestors in prehistoric times. What are the evolutionary pressures that shaped human cognition and how do we see that reflected in modern behaviour? What exactly distinguishes the human species from other non-human primates and other animals? Why are we so successful? What makes us so unique?
The course centers on Workman and Reader's (2014) 'Evolutionary Psychology: An introduction'. This fascinating textbook discusses the evolutionary foundations of uniquely human capacities such as language, morality and theory of mind, as well as mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression and psychopathy. For each of these traits and abilities the possible evolutionary importance (or functional irrelevance) will be discussed. The book contains recent scientific insights from a broad range of domains such as comparative psychology, social, cognitive and clinical psychology, genetics, anthropology and evolutionary psychology.
Students from all backgrounds as well as international students are welcome to participate. These individual differences in background and expertise are found to contribute to the quality and scope of the discussion. Arguments regarding the evolutionary origins of human behavior will typically be of a functional nature and therefore understandable to all.
Note that the course is limited to a maximum of 60 participants. Hence it is important to register early if you want so secure access. At the same time we encourage you to only enroll if you are absolutely certain that you will participate as preliminary enrollments may keep other motivated students from following the course.
Examination
- Presentation (group, 50%)
- Scientific essay (individual or in pairs, 50%)
- Discussion points (sufficient, no grade)
- All grades have to be above 5.5. Furthermore, all students need to have submitted at least one discussion point per chapter that needs to be evaluated as sufficient and a minimum of 70% of the classes needs to be attended (i.e. attendance is kept).
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As room space is limited and because this course is using group presentations and essays, a registration cap may apply for this course. Make sure to register at your earliest convenience. In case of too many enrollments, Psychology students have priority over students from other faculties or universities.
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