Cognitive Science 0278 - The psychology of food, eating, and diet culture

This course provides a framework for analysis of current interacting sociocultural and psychosocial forces that combine to shape human's eating behaviors, food choices, and motivations towards food-based body modification. Topics covered in this course include developmental and behavioral learning mechanisms of food choice and eating patterns, sensory systems and eating experiences, biological, neurological, and biochemical mechanisms of hunger, satiety, and cravings, sociocultural influences on eating patterns, body image and gender, dieting behaviors and weight regulation, the development of cognitions and behaviors concerning food, eating, and our bodies, and how the mental health field conceptualizes and treats eating disorders. Various perspectives will be explored through an anti-oppressive lens, examining the intersections of capitalism and other systems of identity-based oppression and diet and weight-loss culture, food accessibility, marketing/advertising, and public health perceptions of what is "healthy" vs "unhealthy". The food system(s) will also be explored through a critical framework, examining themes of food politics, policies, and food activism

In/Justice Students should expect to spend 6-8 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time.