Tuesday / Thursday, 1:45 PM – 3:14 PM
In this writing seminar, we will use Todd Rose’s Collective Illusions: Conformity, Complicity, and the Science of Why We Make Bad Decisions to explore the biological basis of why we feel the need to conform with our respective groups, even if doing so is shortsighted. By discussing our deep seated need for social belonging, we will explore how we can overcome this bias and become more trusting of society, strangers, and our own true beliefs. As we explore this topic, the course will use this scholarly information as a basis for understanding writing within the disciplines of neuroscience and social psychology. This includes learning about types of reasoning, evidence, citation practices, and other means of sharing knowledge with diverse audiences. Throughout, students are introduced to new writing situations, including a white paper, op ed, and cover letter, as a means of sharpening their skills and learning how to be adaptive effective writers.
Note: This is an SNF Paideia designated writing seminar, designed to examine and encourage dialogue across differences. Students and faculty participating in the SNF Paideia writing seminar cluster will have an opportunity to meet once a month for dinner, dialogue, and a keynote speaker or facilitator, as well as engage in other cross seminar community building activities. SNF Paideia designated courses are noted on student transcripts.