PSY150 California State University Human Mind and Self Sacrifice Discussion
Question Description
Write an essay addressing the topic below:
“Is the human mind designed to be truly self-sacrificial? Discuss different
theoretical perspectives on altruism, as well as evidence in support of these
theories. Ensure that among these theories, you both discuss kin selection theory
and identify whether any available evidence disconfirms this theory.”
Word limit: 1500 words, not including title and end-text references.
* You must indicate the number of words on the title page of your assignment.
Your essay needs to provide an answer to the question by applying social psychology
theories and relevant evidence-based research (not just the material in the textbook).
In addition to the material in the textbook, here are suggested readings to get you
started:
Cialdini, R. B., & Kenrick, D. T. (1976). Altruism as hedonism: A social development perspective on the relationship of
negative mood state and helping. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 34(5), 907-914.
Batson, C. D. (1987). Prosocial motivation: is it ever truly altruistic? Advances in Experimental Social Psychology,
20, 65-122.
Kruger, D. J. (2003). Evolution and altruism: Combining psychological mediators with naturally selected tendencies.
Evolution and Human Behavior, 24(2), 118-125.
McCullough, M. E., Kimeldorf, M. B., Cohen, A. D. (2008). An adaptation for altruism: the social causes, social effects,
and social evolution of gratitude. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 17(4), 281-285.
Your essay must include:
1. A title page
2. A title
3. An essay with
a. an introduction
b. a body
c. a conclusion
4. A reference list
Follow the conventions of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological
Association (APA), 6th Edition (2010). Guidelines on using APA style can be
obtained from the following sources:
Murdoch Library website: http://libguides.murdoch.edu.au/APA
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