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OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE

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The Evolutionary Psychology of Morality   

Historically, morality has been studied as if it were a human invention. This has been the approach of philosophical thinking and writing in the field of ethics for over 2,000 years. Recently, however, biologists have been studying morality as an adaptation, attempting to discover how morality functions and how it evolved. We’ll examine five types of moral adaptation, all of which share a commonality: They enhance survivorship and reproductive success. Genetically based traits that enhance survivorship and reproduction will pass on copies of genes that produce those traits to their offspring. Over time, both the traits and the genes producing them will increase. Seven sessions cover 1) evolution and misconceptions, 2) genes and behavior, 3) Jonathan Haidt’s six dimensions of morality, 4) kin selection and caring, 5) reciprocal altruism and fairness, 6) groups and sanctity, and 7) hierarchy and liberty. Methods include readings, videos, lectures, and group discussions. 
 
NOTE: “The Righteous Mind” by Jonathan Haidt is the optional text for this course.
 
  • The Evolutionary Psychology of Morality – In-Person
  • Item Number: W25SOC321A
    Dates: 1/7/2025 - 2/25/2025
    Times: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    Days: Tu
    Sessions: 7
    Maximum Enrollment:  32
    Building: Campbell Center
    Room: Room A
    Instructor: Dave Ferguson
    Registration for this course is closed. 
    Historically, morality has been studied as if it were a human invention. This has been the approach of philosophical thinking and writing in the field of ethics for over 2,000 years. Recently, however, biologists have been studying morality as an adaptation, attempting to discover how morality functions and how it evolved. We’ll examine five types of moral adaptation, all of which share a commonality: They enhance survivorship and reproductive success. Genetically based traits that enhance survivorship and reproduction will pass on copies of genes that produce those traits to their offspring. Over time, both the traits and the genes producing them will increase. Seven sessions cover 1) evolution and misconceptions, 2) genes and behavior, 3) Jonathan Haidt’s six dimensions of morality, 4) kin selection and caring, 5) reciprocal altruism and fairness, 6) groups and sanctity, and 7) hierarchy and liberty. Methods include readings, videos, lectures, and group discussions. 
     
    NOTE: “The Righteous Mind” by Jonathan Haidt is the optional text for this course.
 

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