PSYC 326 Choice and Decision Making (Not offered 2008-2009; to be offered 2009-2010)
One aspect of "being human" is that we often make choices that we know are bad for us. In this course we survey theoretical and experimental approaches to understanding our strengths and weaknesses as decision makers. Topics include normative decision theories, biases in probability judgments, "fast and frugal" heuristics, impulsiveness and self-control, addictions and bad habits, gambling, and moral decision making.
Format: seminar, with scheduled lab. Requirements: lab attendance, an empirical research project, a written report of the research project, short essays, and class participation.
Prerequisites: Psychology 221 or 222 or permission of instructor. Permission is typically given to students who have successfully completed Economics 110. Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 15). Preference given to senior psychology majors who need the course to fulfill the major. Satisfies one semester of the Division II requirement.
KIRBY