Topics in Emotion and Social Cognition
Tuesdays, 7-10 PM, 315 Baxter.
Prof. Ralph Adolphs
radolphs@hss.caltech.edu
Course website: http://emotion.caltech.edu/courses
Course description: This seminar class will discuss recent literature pertaining to two
“hot” topics in emotion and social cognition: feelings/consciousness and gender
differences. Classes will consist of overview lectures by myself, discussions of papers
by everyone, and debate topics.
Grading: You are expected to read all of the assigned papers and participate in class
discussions. You are expected to attend every class, unless you have made arrangements
with me beforehand.
Grades will be based on your discussion participation in class, or, at your option, a term
paper (whichever of the two is better if you do both). If you would like to have the
opportunity for a more prepared presentation to lead a discussion/debate, please let me
know in one of the first couple of classes so we can schedule that.
If you choose to write a term paper: Term papers should be electronic, in Microsoft
Word, and around 10 single-spaced pages. An outline of your paper is due May 2, an
initial draft is due May 23, and the final paper is due June 1 via email to me.
Syllabus: (revised)
March 28: Introduction, overview, assignments and grading.
Overview lecture.
April 4: An introduction to Neuroscience Methods and Consciousness.
April 11: no class (but lots of readings).
April 18 & 25: Emotion, Feelings, and Conscious Experience.
May 2: Debate: which animals could have feelings? Could a robot have feelings?
PAPER OUTLINE DUE
May 9: Background on brainstem, coma, brain death
May 16 & 23: Coma, persistent vegetative state and brain death.
PAPER DRAFT DUE MAY 23
May 30: Overall debates (sign up for it).