Free online courseIntroduction to Psychology

Course Description

Welcome to "Introduction to Psychology," a comprehensive course led by the esteemed Professor Paul Bloom. Designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of psychology, this course spans an engaging 18 hours and 43 minutes. It is positioned within the Health category, specifically under the subcategory of Psychology, making it an essential journey for anyone interested in the human mind and behavior.

In the opening segment, "Introduction," Professor Bloom sets the stage for the fascinating exploration ahead, offering insights into what psychology encompasses and why it is an important field of study. This introductory section lays the groundwork, setting clear expectations for the entire course.

The journey then continues with "Foundations: This Is Your Brain," where you will delve into the biological underpinnings of the mind, exploring the complex structures and processes that enable human cognition and behavior. Moving forward, "Foundations: Freud" opens a window into the theories of one of psychology's most influential figures, Sigmund Freud. Here, you will contemplate the inner workings of the psyche, organized around Freud's model of the mind.

"Foundations: Skinner" shifts focus to B.F. Skinner's contributions, highlighting how the principles of behaviorism have shaped modern psychological practices. Next, the course addresses the question, "What Is It Like to Be a Baby: The Development of Thought," where you'll uncover the cognitive development stages from infancy through childhood.

In the segment, "How Do We Communicate?: Language in the Brain, Mouth," the intricacies of language development and usage are pronounced, demonstrating the neurological and physiological aspects of communication. This theme continues with "Conscious of the Present; Conscious of the Past: Language," examining how language influences our perception of time and memory.

The course then delves deeper into evolutionary psychology with "Evolution, Emotion, and Reason: Love," featuring a special guest lecture, followed by "Evolution, Emotion, and Reason: Evolution and Rationality." These sections provide a nuanced understanding of how evolution shapes human emotion and decision-making.

Further, "Evolution, Emotion, and Reason: Emotions, Part I and II" dissect the complexity and functions of human emotions. The segment "Why Are People Different?: Differences" addresses the nature versus nurture debate, exploring the factors contributing to individual behavioral differences.

In "What Motivates Us: Sex," motivations behind human sexuality are examined. Subsequent lectures, "A Person in the World of People: Morality," and "Self and Other, Part I and II," explore moral psychology and the concept of self in relation to others.

The course also tackles the darker aspects of psychology in "What Happens When Things Go Wrong: Mental Illness, Part I and II," offering a primer on mental health disorders and their impact on individuals and society. Finally, "The Good Life: Happiness," wraps up the course by investigating what constitutes happiness and how it can be achieved.

"Introduction to Psychology" with Paul Bloom is an enriching course that promises to provide a thorough grounding in psychology, enhancing your understanding of human behavior and mental processes.