TimeDaysLocationInstructorGERCreditOPUS Class NumberSyllabus (Tentative)
11:30am-12:45pm
TuTh
New Psyc Bldg 36 Eagle Row 290
De Waal, Frans B. SNT. 41213 TBA.

January 13, 2010- April 26, 2010

Prerequisites: Biology 141 and 142.
Crosslisted: PSYC325-000.

Catalog Description: (Same as Psychology 325.) Prerequisite: Biology 142. Following a general introduction to primatology, the course will cover recent progress in the growing field of primate social behavior. Topics range from aggression and dominance to affiliation, sex, and peaceful coexistence.

Semester Details:

The evolution of the large brain and remarkable intelligence of primates has been explained as related to the complexity of their societies:  survival in such societies requires sophisticated social skills and a thorough understanding of the relationship network.  Course segments focus on the motivational and cognitive processes underlying coalition formation, reciprocal exchange of benefits, reconciliation following conflict, and the origin of moral systems.  Parallels with human behavior will be discussed.

This course originates in the Psychology Departmnet.

Required Textbooks, Articles, and Resources

  1. Selected Readings.

The schedule of courses on O.P.U.S. is the official listing of courses, including days and times they meet and the General Education Requirements they satisfy. Students should use course descriptions as general guidelines. Course requirements, grading details, book lists, and syllabi are subject to change.