IN PERSON: Utilizing historical as well as more contemporary examples, this course will help students gain an understanding of the roots of human conflict. Hopefully this will result in an understanding of the possible ways we might reconcile the contradictory aspects of our nature. We will discuss the biology and culture of prejudice, and the cognitive basis of hostility and violence. We will look at basic definitions for prejudice, stereotypes, and hate, as well as how words are used as weapons including in antisemitism, racism, ageism, and other isms. We will explore how we can change attitudes and reduce prejudice. By looking at biology, culture, psychology, and the role of the internet, students will come away with a better understanding of the roots of conflict in society. | Facilitated discussion.
Max enrollment: 20.
Location: Judea Reform Congregation, 1933 W. Cornwallis Rd, Durham NC 27705
Helen Reiner is a licensed psychologist in the state of North Carolina with a doctorate in psychology from Columbia University. Dr. Reiner was in private practice for over 35 years as well as being the Director of a Center for Grieving Children and their Families in Wichita, Kansas. She was also the Director of the Psychology Training Clinic at Wichita State University. She has taught a number of courses for OLLI at Duke, most recently The Body Keeps Score.