This course will introduce students to major concepts and theories in social cognition. In particular, we will focus on how social and emotional factors shape judgment and choice. Class meetings will include a mixture of lecture and discussion. We will address such questions as: In what ways do specific emotions influence judgments and choices? What are some common mistakes in judgment and decision making? How do attitudes form and change? Can information shape our choices even if we do not consciously recognize the information? Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on understanding: (1) basic theories and research findings of decision science and psychology, and (2) the relevance of research findings to everyday life.
