PSYK3500 Evolution and Behavior Course description

The course provides an introduction to how theories on evolution and behaviour analysis can explain the behaviour of animals and humans. The course covers key topics in modern evolutionary biology, behavioural ecology and selection in relation to consequences. This includes an introduction to topics from biology, evolutionary psychology, anthropology and behaviour analysis views on selection and culture.

Admission to the programme.

After completing the course, the student is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and competence:

Knowledge

The student

• has knowledge of similarities and differences between selection in evolutionary biology, behaviour analysis and cultures
• is familiar with interactions between selection principles at the different levels
• has broad knowledge of basic principles and theories in modern evolution biology
• has broad knowledge of key topics in behavioural ecology
• has knowledge of key topics in modern genetics and understanding of heredity
• is familiar with the significance of natural selection to the nervous system’s structure and function
• has knowledge of basic research areas in evolutionary psychology

Skills

The student is capable of

• using principles of cultural selection in relation to changes in organisations and groups
• finding examples of how specific behaviour can be explained from an evolutionary perspective
• reflecting on topics and theories in evolution and behaviour

Competence

The student

• has insight into the biological basis of behaviour in animals, including humans
• is capable of describing selection as an explanatory model both orally and in writing
• is familiar with new ideas and innovation processes in behaviour analysis as a holistic discipline based on selection sciences

Work and teaching methods used in the course are lectures, self-study, presentation of texts and group work. Seminars will also be held where the students present subject matter. Participation in these seminars is compulsory. Students will present texts from the syllabus, encourage discussion and receive guidance on further reading.

During the course, the students must submit three assignments. Submission of the assignments is compulsory.

• Participation at the compulsory seminars (80%)
• Presentation of academic texts
• Submission of three assignments (max. 900 words)

The required coursework must be approved before the students can take the supervised written exam.

Supervised individual written exam, 4 hours.

None

A-F

Two internal examiners