Name: Nature versus Nurture
Code:
Studypoints: 6 ECTS

Course Program: Program_NatureNurture.pdf (595.84 KB)

Period: week 40-43 (01 october-26 october 2012)

Coordinators: Dr. Tinca Polderman, Dr. Pim van Nierop

Lecturers: MSc. Niels van Doesum, Prof. dr. Peter Heutink, mevr. Maud van der Hulst, Dr. Ronald van Kesteren, Prof. dr. Elly A. Konijn, Dr. Gary Lewis,
Dr. Jorg Massen, Dr. Pim van Nierop, Dr. Jochem Peter, Dr. Tinca Polderman, Prof. dr. Daniëlle Posthuma, Dr. Liesbeth Sterck, Prof. dr. Nico van Straalen, Prof. dr. Matthijs Verhage

Goal: To understand causes of individual differences in human behavior, and to be able to critically evaluate the ongoing nature-nurture debate.

Course Content: Humans show considerable individual differences which are caused by differences in the individual’s genes and/or by differences in their environment. In this course the influence of genes and environment on behavior will be dissected using empirical evidence obtained from experiments with human subjects and animals. The course focuses on human traits that are derived from socially relevant topics, such as social and antisocial behavior, political attitude/voting behavior, empathy, and the effects of violent computer games on aggression. Students will be introduced to the world of DNA and genetic information, with hands-on experience with DNA techniques (DNA collection, isolation, and genotyping), and with discussions about the the ethical aspects of DNA research. Evolution of human brain development and behavior will be clarified by pointing out the intriguing parallels with social cognitive skills of other primates.

Method: Lectures, practicals, workgroups, excursions

Literature:

Selected chapters from:

Essential Cell Biology, Alberts
Essentials of Neural Science and Behavior, Kandel & Schwartz
The Origin of Species, Charles Darwin
The Nurture Assumption, Judith Harris
The Age of Empathy, Frans de Waal
Rule book for Arguments, Anthony Weston

Testing: Exam, debate

Focus Group: Third year bachelor students

Participation: Two years of bachelor education (all directions)

Central Academic Skill: Debating and discussing