701-1462-00L  Evolution of Social Behavior and Biological Communication

SemesterSpring Semester 2021
LecturersM. Mescher
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionEnglish
CommentNumber of participants limited to 24.



Courses

NumberTitleHoursLecturers
701-1462-00 VEvolution of Social Behavior and Biological Communication2 hrs
Thu16:15-18:00LEE C 114 »
M. Mescher

Catalogue data

AbstractThis course addresses presents core concepts in the study of behavior and biological communication from a Darwinian perspective, with a focus on the evolution of sociality and the emergence of higher-level biological organization. It will entail lectures and discussion of selected readings from relevant primary and secondary literature.
ObjectiveStudents will become familiar with the application of Darwinian evolutionary theory to the study of behavior, communication, and social organization. They will also gain insight into the relevance of these topics for broader intellectual questions in biology, as well as for the organization of human societies.
ContentThis course will begin with an exploration of key concepts, including the central role of information in biology and Darwinian explanations for the emergence of adaptation and functional complexity in biological systems. We will then discuss the application of these concepts to the study of behavior and communication, with a focus on the evolution of social interactions. Significant attention will also be given to the evolution of cooperation among individual organisms and the emergence and maintenance of complex social organization. Finally, we will discuss the implications of the material covered for understanding human behavior and for the organization of human societies, including implications for implementing collective action to address global environmental challenges. These topics will be covered by lectures and discussion of relevant readings selected by the instructor. Evaluations will be based on in-class or take-home examinations, as well as participation in classroom discussions.

Performance assessment

Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again)
Performance assessment as a semester course
ECTS credits3 credits
ExaminersM. Mescher
Typegraded semester performance
Language of examinationEnglish
RepetitionRepetition only possible after re-enrolling for the course unit.

Learning materials

No public learning materials available.
Only public learning materials are listed.

Groups

No information on groups available.

Restrictions

Places24 at the most
PriorityRegistration for the course unit is only possible for the primary target group
Primary target groupBiology MSc (562000)
Environmental Sciences MSc (736000)
Waiting listuntil 19.02.2021
End of registration periodRegistration only possible until 26.02.2021

Offered in

ProgrammeSectionType
Biology MasterElective Compulsory Master CoursesWInformation
Environmental Sciences MasterAdvanced ConceptsWInformation