PSY 5420 - Belief in the Brain

Goals: To introduce students to the concept of human belief and doubt in philosophy, psychology, and cognitive neuroscience. The course primarily aims to explore the differences of two theoretical belief models with emphasis on how each one of these belief models may shape our society. This includes issues dealing with the right of free speech, mass communications, advertising, propaganda, lie detection, and religious beliefs. Students will cultivate their own perspectives with cumulative essays and in class discussion, as well as improving lecture skills with multiple in class presentations.

Content: Wide-ranging perspectives on human belief: philosophical, cognitive science, and cognitive neuroscience; lesion method in cognitive neuroscience, prefrontal cortex functionality, cognitive science of religion, authoritarianism, dual-processing, cognitive dissonance.

Prerequisite: PSY 3420 or PSY 3570 (grades of C- or better), or instructor permission

Credits: 4