The Puzzle of Personality

Why do some people take risks while others avoid them at all costs? Are our personalities shaped more by nature or nurture? Is there a “true self” that is consistent over time, or rather different versions of the self that emerge based on the situation? In this course we will explore such questions by examining them from multiple angles and across various time periods, from the ancient Greeks to current psychological theories. Students will learn to interact with both quantitative and qualitative material, including personality assessments, cross-cultural data, and case studies. Using an interdisciplinary framework, we will draw upon the social sciences, literature, and philosophy to discuss how personality develops and the extent to which it influences our behavior, relationships, mental health, and life paths.