The Psychology of Evil

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Yes, you may call me "Dr. Evil"

PSYC 289E - The Psychology of EvilThe University of Maryland

*New Winter 2013 Section Added*

Dr. Scott Roberts
Director of Undergraduate Studies
Department of Psychology

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Why is there evil in the world?  Are some born evil, or do social, environmental and cultural forces create evil?  What makes otherwise ‘good’ people do evil things?  The scientific study of evil epitomizes the fundamental challenge that psychology faces in dissecting the role of biology (nature) and the social context (nurture).  To engage the field requires not only an integrated understanding of psychological theories and research findings, but also reflection on our own personal vulnerabilities to becoming a victim or a perpetrator.
You can expect this to be a interesting, engaging and challenging course.  We will begin with discussions on the major questions that the study of evil presents, including how we define, identify, explain and prevent harmful and anti-social behavior.  Informed by some introductory readings, you will write a paper reflecting on the academic, social and ethical complexities of these questions and the various ways in which psychologists might go about answering them.  We will then read chapters and journal articles on specific aspects of the dispositional and situational influences and complete independent assignments and in-class activities that challenge us to apply the empirical findings to contemporary case studies.  Finally, you will work in pairs to develop a scholarly research proposal related to a course topic of your choice and present your proposal to the class.

Course discussion topics include:

• Why is there evil in the world?
• What is evil and why do we care?
• How can we explain violence?
• Why do “terrorists” exploit our fear of evil?
• Is evil ever justified?
• Can “good people” be evil?
• When is failing to help an act of evil?
• Is evil a part of human nature? 
• What motivates us to help and harm?
• Was evil necessary for our species to survive?
• Are we all evil in some way?
• How does cognition play a role in evil?
• Would you obey an evil order from authority?
• Is studying evil an evil thing to do?
• Why does "bad" sometimes make us feel so good?
• How do our morals and emotions factor in?
• Is there any proven way to reduce evil?

For a sample syllabus visit: http://psychology.umd.edu/ugrad/Undergrad_syllabi.html

Learn more about I-Series courses here: http://www.gened.umd.edu/i-series/iseries.php
For detailed information about course offerings visit the Schedule of Classes
NOTE: This course, like all I-Series courses, is open to all majors and does not have a prerequisite.  PSYC majors may count this course as elective credit in the Social, Developmental & Organizational Studies theme.