Module 10: Why People are Evil
Pyramid of Capitalist System, Public domain image
Description: Humans have an enormous capacity for aggression and destructive behavior, yet how this is expressed varies across cultures. This module examines universal patterns in human aggression while exploring how different cultures manage and channel destructive tendencies. We investigate both individual and group-level expressions of conflict and violence.
Module Learning Objectives: By the end of this module students will be able to…
- MLO1: Identify universal patterns in human aggression (CLO1)
- MLO2: Analyze cultural influences on conflict and aggression (CLO2)
- MLO3: Compare approaches to conflict across cultures (CLO3)
Why This Module Is Important: Understanding human aggression and conflict is crucial for promoting peace and stability across cultures. Conflict mediators use this knowledge to resolve intercultural disputes. Security professionals apply these insights to prevent and manage violence. International aid workers use this understanding to operate in conflict zones, while peace-building organizations apply it to promote reconciliation between groups. This knowledge helps you recognize and address destructive behaviors in culturally appropriate ways.
The readings for this Module come from:
Sections 12.5 (Prejudice & Discrimination) & 12.6 (Aggression) in Psychology 2e by Openstax, licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Portion of Chapter 7 (Political Anthropology) in Perspectives: An Open Introduction to Cultural Anthropology by the Society for Anthropology in Community Colleges, licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0.