Transcript Lecture 1 - Introduction

PSY 243.3
Evolutionary Psychology
Instructor: Danny Krupp
The New Synthesis

Virtually all of psychological study has
been dedicated to understanding how
something happens.

Psychological theory does not explain
why we are influenced by specific
phenomena.
The Vastness of EP

Applies to all areas of psychological study

Work prospects

Interdisciplinary
Details, details...

Instructor: Danny Krupp
 Email: [email protected]
 Office hours: By appointment

Assistant: Joe Camilleri
 Email: [email protected]
 Office Hours: By appointment
Syllabus (1)

Required text:

Buss, D. M. (1999). Evolutionary
psychology: The new science of the
mind. Toronto: Allyn & Bacon.
Syllabus (2)

2 assignments:
 Journal article critique (20%): Oct 25
 Research essay (30%): Nov 22

2 examinations:
 Midterm (20%): Week of Oct 7
 Final (30%): TBA
 MC, short answer, long answer
 Both cumulative
Syllabus (3)

Schedule:
 Dates are to serve as a guide, and are
subject to change

Time allowing, we will cover “special
topics,” such as evolutionary forensic
psychology and the evolution of art,
music, and culture
Asking Questions

There is no such thing as a stupid
question!

You can ask questions in class, after class,
at my office, or by email… Just ask
Say What? (1)

Some of the lectures will touch on
sensitive issues, such as:
 Mating behaviour;
 Criminal behaviour; and
 Religion
Say What? (2)

I will try to be sensitive to your needs

However, I will test you on these topics

Make alternate arrangements with me if a
topic makes you uncomfortable
The Wrap-Up
EP seeks to answer the question “Why?”
 Many research & work prospects
 I’m Danny & he’s Joe
 Attend lectures & ask questions
 Buy & begin reading textbook
 epweb
 Feedback

Things to Come

Next week, we will focus on the following:
 The history of the “organic origins
debate” and the “Darwin wars”
 Adaptation and selection processes
 The philosophy of evolutionary thinking:
implications and fallacies