The module deals with current key evolutionary thinking associated with the mode and tempo of evolution, to include areas such as fitness, neutralism, drift, contingency, selfishness & altruism, competition & cooperation and sexual selection.
Basic concepts of population biology, ethology and cultural selection. After these fundamental concepts have been firmly established, the goal is to consider how evolutionary explanations have been used in studies of human behaviour and to critically evaluate some commonly encountered examples. These could include: inclusive fitness, aggression, altruism and selfishness, morality and memes.

A weekly lecture of two hours will include time for group discussion based on the independent work you have carried out. Independent study activities will be provided through Blackboard relating to lecture topics. For instance, they may involve some research in the library for examples of a given behaviour pattern. Feedback on the assignments will form part of the lectures.

Summative assessment
100% coursework essay, 2,500 words. In this essay students will explain and analyse, by drawing on a range of psychological theories, one type of human behaviour. This will assess learning outcomes 1, 2 and 3.


Formative learning
Students will be given opportunities to receive formative feedback on essay plans throughout the module. Student plans will be evaluated and verbal feedback will be provided. Activities and feedback relating to content will be offered through Blackboard.

Barrett, L. Dunbar, R. & Lycett, J. Human Evolutionary Psychology. Palgrave. 2001. ISBN: 0333725581
Badcock., C. Evolutionary Psychology: A critical introduction. Polity. 2000. ISBN: 0745622062
Blackmore, S. The Meme Machine. Oxford Paperbacks. 2000. ISBN: 019286212X
Cartwright J. (2008) Evolution and Human Behaviour: Darwinian Perspectives on Human Nature. Second Edition. Palgrave Macmillan
Buss, D. (2005) The Handbook of Evolutionary Psychology. Hoboken, N.J.John Wiley
Swani, V, (2011) Evolutionary Psychology: A Critical Introduction. London BPS Blackwell.

Computers with word processing capabilities.