Neuroscience & Behavior 309SE - Phil. and Science of Emotion

This course, rooted in an analytical philosophical approach, is an interdisciplinary investigation of emotions. The course goals are to understand emotions, how different academic disciplines approach the study of emotions, and how these perspectives can inform each other. Are emotions primarily bodily responses? Feelings? Thoughts? What role does culture play in shaping emotions? What functions do emotions serve? What can neuroscience tell us about emotions? We will read and critically analyze material from different disciplines including philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, anthropology and evolutionary theory.

Prereq: 8 credits in Philosophy or Neuroscience and Behavior, or 4 credits in each.