The course primarily covers the laboratory experiments done by social
psychologists on social conflict, a research paradigm sometimes referred
to as experimental games, and the related theories.  Only rarely will
field or archival research be included.  Aggression and altruism will be
included only within the context of experimental games.  There will be a
more or less even mix between earlier studies and recent ones.  The
required readings will be a limited list of journal articles and book
chapters, with each analyzed in depth.  The course is structured like a
seminar but with the professor presenting every time.  Class discussion of
important issues will be encouraged.
Representative topics are: 2-person games, such as the prisoner's dilemma,
bargaining, coalition formation, n-person games, such as the commons
dilemma.
Grades are determined by 3 essay/short answer exams.  There are no other
requirements.