Social Psychology

Course Description

This course is designed to help students better understand the diverse connections between the individual and society. We will explore how modern social institutions (e.g. media, education) and culture shape us as unique individuals. We will examine key concepts in social psychology as written by social theorists in the disciplines of psychology and sociology. We will also discuss the dynamic tension between the individual and society: exploring how the individual is influenced by various aspects of the environment, and how s/he may shape the environment as agent of change. In the course, you will be asked to think critically about your self, identity, and social roles. In addition to studying various approaches to understanding – or theorizing – the self, we will work together to form a safe and productive learning community.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:
– Think critically about the dynamics between the individual and society;
– Analyze social identity and the social development of the individual;
– Recognize forms of social behavior (e.g., prejudice, ethnocentrism);
– Explore how social structures and culture influence the individual, and in return how s/he can affect the environment as an agent of change;
– Apply social psychological theories in analysis of presentation of self;
– Cultivate a safe and productive learning community;
– Encourage students to develop their writing skills;
– Facilitate useful, engaging discussions of the self/selfhood.