This week you must defend perspectives in an academic fashion by using social psychology concepts
as references. In psychology, relying exclusively on personal opinions and experiences is unscientific.
This is because: 1) personal opinions are idiosyncratic and cannot possibly be objective, 2) what is
personal is never universal, and 3) personal experiences cannot be measured or 4) proven right or
wrong. Finally, 5) in psychology unscientific methods of exploration are considered to be subjective
and unethical.
Keeping this in mind, please respond to the following four short essay questions by relying on
academic concepts rather than personal knowledge. Personal opinions or perspectives may be
appreciated insofar as they provide real-world examples.
1.
People can often easily generate stereotypes about other countries, but have difficulty
generating them about their own. What two social psychology concepts explain this
phenomenon? For ethical and methodological reasons, if you choose to base your examples
in personal experiences, please keep the identity of the characters of your story anonymous.
2.
According to social psychology, the formation of stereotypes is unavoidable. However,
stereotyping is at the source of prejudice and discrimination. Can you explain how we go
from stereotyping to developing prejudice and discrimination?
3.
According to social psychology, helping and prosocial behavior can be viewed from an
evolutionary perspective. Using social psychology concepts, explain how altruistic and
prosocial behaviors are good for human survival. In your answer, make sure to discuss
social exchange and kinship selection.
4.
List and define three (3) types of prosocial behavior. Discuss why not all prosocial behavior
is seen as selfless. In your answer, make sure to give examples. Your examples can come
from historic events, novels, news, films and series, and personal experiences. For ethical
and methodological reasons, if you choose to base your examples i
