LFU:online

·   Explain key theories and concepts in social psychology, such as conformity, social roles, group dynamics, and social influence.

·   Analyze how cultural and historical contexts shape social behavior, perceptions, attitudes, and group dynamics.

·   Critically evaluate studies in social and cognitive neuroscience to understand how brain function shapes social perception and social behavior.

This course introduces students to the foundational theories and research in social psychology, with a focus on the neuroscientific underpinnings of social behavior. Students will explore how brain function shapes social interaction, group dynamics, and cultural norms through the works of relevant European and Austrian researchers, like Viktor Frankl and Sigmund Freud. Students will also visit significant locations that shaped these thinkers' lives and work to gain insight into how social, cultural, and historical contexts influence psychological theories. The course will blend classic social psychology concepts with insights from cognitive neuroscience and use Austria’s historical contexts to ground these ideas in real-world experiences.