Exploring Prejudice and Social Cognition

Have you ever wondered why certain biases persist in society, or how our perceptions shape our interactions with others? This course will equip you with a fundamental understanding of the psychological mechanisms behind attitudes, prejudice, and social cognition. You will learn to identify the roots of bias, analyze its manifestations, and develop a more informed perspective on human social behavior. Through reading and engaging with explanations, you will gain insights into these complex social phenomena. Build your comprehension of societal dynamics and individual perceptions. What you'll learn: * Understand the core definitions of attitudes, stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination. * Learn the psychological theories explaining the formation and maintenance of social biases. * Analyze how social cognition influences perception, judgment, and decision-making. * Explore the concepts of implicit bias and systemic discrimination in contemporary contexts. * Identify cognitive shortcuts and heuristics that contribute to social categorization. * Practice critical thinking about real-world examples of bias and its impact. The course begins by defining essential terminology and exploring foundational theories, then progresses to analyzing the cognitive processes involved in social perception and the societal implications of bias. This course is designed for absolute beginners with no prior background in psychology. It is ideal for anyone curious about the human mind's role in shaping social interactions and inequalities. Start your journey to a deeper understanding of human social psychology today.