PSYC 4300 - Psychology of Genocide and Terrorism

5 credit hours
This course examines the socio-cultural motives, meanings, and conditions, as well as the psychological processes that fuel and sustain extreme forms of political violence like genocide, torture and terrorism. It balances an examination of the causes of such violence with studies of their psychological effects on individuals and communities. Readings and discussions will draw on research from several branches of psychology, including social and clinical psychology, as well as from the disciplines of political science and anthropology. Case studies will examine the Holocaust and the Bosnian genocides, the transformation of the Apartheid state in South Africa, and America’s ongoing engagement with Al Qaeda and Islamic nationalists in the “global war on terror”. Registration restrictions may be bypassed by the department with permission of instructor.

Registration Restriction(s): Junior standing