INST 3515 - Experiencing Nature: Conservation Psychology in a Global Context

Hours: 4
This course will look at the many ways humans intersect with the natural world. We will explore the bi-directional relationship between human psychology and the environment. We will consider how the natural world impacts our behavior and experiences, and in turn, how we our thoughts, feelings, and behavior impact the natural world. Aspects of developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, environmental psychology, and conservation psychology will be highlighted. Topics will include nature and personal identity, evolutionary perspectives, tragedy of the commons, the biophilia hypothesis, nature deficit disorder, and the relationship between nature and stress. We will also look at what governs how humans treat the environment such as what increases conservation behaviors, what kinds of persuasion are effective, and how group dynamics contribute to global warming and similar large-scale problems. We will consider problems and solutions locally and on a global scale.

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INST 3515 - Experiencing Nature: Conservation Psychology in a Global Context