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We will discuss the social and cultural environments in which we currently live. Course updates include new research findings on topics such as the January 6 insurrection (mob psychology), the resurgence of fascism in America, voting patterns among different groups, and new interpretations of classic studies on authoritarianism. We will seek fresh perspectives on how we shape — and are shaped by — the multiple forces and environments that surround us. Do we even have free will? How much of our behavior is actually under conscious control? How much is dictated by our biological makeup, unconscious motivations, and societal dictates?  Why have we developed certain beliefs, perspectives, and behaviors? How do we take individual responsibility for our actions; how do we develop our moral sense of right and wrong; and how do race, gender, and social class affect our views of others?

Instructor Joel Shapiro, Ed.D., retired as Chair and full professor of education and psychology from Green Mountain College, Poultney, VT. He won a Fulbright Scholarship to teach at the University of Presov, Slovak Republic and wrote a book for college professors on ways to successfully integrate international students into American classrooms. Additionally, he wrote numerous articles for American and European professional journals and lectured at universities and conferences throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. He has won teaching awards at several colleges. Prior to beginning his academic career, he was a school psychologist working with children having special needs. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Colgate University, his Master’s degree from Temple University and his doctorate from Nova Southeastern University.