During this course, students will learn some fundamental principles of how the mind and brain work through the lens of psychology and neuroscience, which specifically relate to the formation of biases, discrimination, categorization, and in-group/out-group thinking. Students will have the opportunity to choose a social issue of their special interest to focus their learning of the above concepts. For example, a student may choose any of the following social inequity issue: Racism, Sexism, Homophobia, Transphobia, Neurodiversity, Mental Illness, Able-bodiness, Ageism, Socioeconomics, Homelessness, or any one not listed that is equally important to consider.
The following topics will be explored:
The Psychology and Neuroscience of Discrimination & Categorization
Cognitive Biases
Epigenetics and Intergenerational Trauma
Threat, Stress, and Fear of the Unknown
Intersectionality & Social Justice
Reconciliation and Listening
Certificate and MicroDegree in Psychological Neuroscience