Much of the material presented in this course forms part of the relatively new academic discipline of evolutionary psychology/anthropology. The goal of this course is to discover and understand the principles of evolutionary psychology and other complementary paradigms. The module explores human behaviour (primarily human sexual behaviours) from an evolutionary perspective. Topics covered are reproductive and mating strategies, parenting behaviour, kinship, cooperation, survival, status striving, jealously, and aggression. The course will provide an excellent understanding of the deeply biological nature of human behaviour, and develop skills in critical thinking. Students will be encouraged to bring relevant questions and observations to seminars and time will be allocated to deal with them.
Total contact hours: 22
Private study hours: 128
Total study hours: 150
Available as an elective module
Running last time 2024/25.
Examination, pre-seen questions, 2 hours (100%)
Reassessment method: Like for Like
*Exams will be in-person*
Main text:
Human Evolutionary Psychology, Barrett, L., Dunbar, R.I.M & Lycett, J.E. 2002. Palgrave:London.
Supplementary texts:
Why Is Sex Fun?, Diamond, J. 1997. New York: Basic.
The Red Queen, Ridley, M. 1993. New York: Penguin.
Why Sex Matters, Low, B. 1999. Princeton: Princeton U. Press.
Sperm Wars, Baker, R. 1996. New York: Basic.
Primate Sexuality, Dixson, A. Oxford: Oxford U. Press.
Evolutionary Psychology, Swami, V. 2011. West Sussex; BPS Blackwell
Plus primary research from a range of appropriate journals (updated year by year)
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Understand theoretical concerns, methods, and findings of current empirical research in evolutionary anthropology
8.2 Understand aspects of human behaviour in terms of our evolutionary past
8.3 Understand the implications of Darwin's theory of natural selection for human behaviour
8.4 Acquire an in depth knowledge of human reproductive behaviour
8.5 Critically evaluate new research in the field through exposure to anthropological/evolutionary psychology approaches to the study of human behaviour
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
