In this course, we explore some of the historically important philosophical questions relating to the human person. This will include discussions about the existence (or non-existence) of free will; the question of what makes you the particular person you are; and the nature of the human (and non-human mind).

Our sense of who we are permeates every aspect of our life. This course explores how we develop a sense of self; how we navigate multiple identities, some of which may be conflicting or socially devalued; and how these identities affect both consciously and unconsciously our thoughts, motives, feelings, and behavior. Students engage with classical theories and contemporary research to gain insight into psychological perspectives on self and identity. This course allows students to answer, “Who am I?” from developmental and historical lenses. Through understanding the narratives around the development of the individual, the family, the clan, the ethnic/regional history, students develop a deeper sense of self-awareness with positive implication on identity and self-growth.

- Oyserman, D., Elmore, K., & Smith, G. Self, self-concept, and identity. In Handbook of self and identity (pp. 69-104). New York, NY: The Gilford Press.
- Yoshino, K. An uncovered self. In Covering (pp. 3-27). New York, NY: Random House
- Eurich, T. What Self- Awareness Really Is (and How to Cultivate It). Harvard Business Review Press.
- Helmsterter, S. What to Say when you talk to Yourself, Chapters 1-3. New York, NY: Gallery Books.
- Brown, J. Self-Esteem and Self-Image. High self-esteem buffers negative feedback, Cognition and Emotion, 24 (8), 13891404
- Neff, K. Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself.
- Hogg et al. The social identity perspective: Intergroup Relations, Self-Conception, and Small Group, Small Group Research, 247-269
- McGonigal, K. The Willpower Instinct How Self-Control Works, Why It Matters, and What You Can Do To Get More, Ch2-3
- Coutu, D. How Resilience Works
- Goleman, D. Resilience for the Rest of Us
- Covey, S. Seven Habits of Highly Effective People