Students will examine major turning points in American history during the twentieth century. Topics include: the expanding role of the federal courts; the continuing tension between the individual and the state and between minority rights and majority power; the emergence of a modern corporate economy; the impact of technology on American society and culture; change in the ethnic composition of American society; the movements toward equal right for racial minorities and women; and the role of the United States as a major world power. In each unit students should examine American culture, including religion, literature, art, drama, architecture, education, and the mass media.

This course focuses on the scientific study of human development, learning, motivation and personality. Students explore implications for everyday life with a scientific perspective on human behavior.