A student who successfully completes this course will be able to:
Theoretical and Conceptual Competence
- 1. Analyze and compare foundational theories in political psychology (e.g., system justification, authoritarianism, social identity, modern racism, realistic conflict), focusing on how different mechanisms explain similar political outcomes.
- 2. Distinguish and critically assess the intellectual orientations of psychological political science and political psychology, applying this distinction to the evaluation of course readings.
Contextual and Analytical Application
- 3. Critically apply political psychology theories to empirical cases beyond their original contexts, using examples from Turkey and other non-US settings to assess theoretical scope and limits.
- 4. Evaluate contemporary political phenomena (e.g., conflict, violence, racism, polarization) through a political-psychological lens, identifying both explanatory power and blind spots.
Research Development and Scholarly Practice
- 5. Generate and refine original research questions grounded in political psychology literature.
- 6. Provide constructive, theoretically informed critique of peers’ research ideas, demonstrating scholarly engagement and methodological awareness.
- 7. Communicate complex theoretical arguments effectively in oral presentations and written analytical work.
Critical Engagement with Scholarship
- 8. Synthesize and critique classical and contemporary research, identifying methodological limitations, theoretical tensions, and cultural biases that shape the field.