This course examines the interplay between nature, nurture and culture in the behavioral sciences. Specifically, how natural selection operates to shape successful genes in the gene pool, how cultural selection operates to shape successful memes in the pool of cultural ideas, and how selection by consequences operates to shape successful behaviors in our repertoires. Topics include cases in which selection produces undesirable consequences (e.g. genetic mutations, cultural problems, and aberrant behaviors in children). An emphasis will be placed on understanding the role of modern natural science in complex behaviors and why study of human life from an interdisciplinary perspective is important.
3 units · Letter (ABCD/NP) · GER: WAY-SMA
This course examines the interplay between nature, nurture and culture in the behavioral sciences. Specifically, how natural selection operates to shape successful genes in the gene pool, how cultural selection operates to shape successful memes in the pool of cultural ideas, and how selection by consequences operates to shape successful behaviors in our repertoires. Topics include cases in which selection produces undesirable consequences (e.g. genetic mutations, cultural problems, and aberrant behaviors in children). An emphasis will be placed on understanding the role of modern natural science in complex behaviors and why study of human life from an interdisciplinary perspective is important.
Offered in Spring 2027 at Stanford University.