ABSTRACT
Like all introductory psychology courses, Psychology 201 “Controversial Issues in Psychology” (PSY 201) exposes students to fundamental concepts and applications of psychology, aiming to develop in students a richer understanding of themselves, of others, and the intricacies of human relationships. Classic work in psychology has shown that human nature seems to abhor imbalance and inconsistency as nature abhors a vacuum. The guidance offered students through instruction in guided inquiry, critical thinking, and various methods of persuasion mitigates the discomfort produced by wandering into the unknown. Students receive formal instruction in critical thinking because they need a common framework and terminology to which they can hold one another accountable. Just prior to tackling controversial issues in psychology and initiating the second part of the course, the authors discuss some basic philosophical assumptions that often drive controversy in the field of psychology.
