FYS 1226 - The Psychology of Star Wars

Credits: 4
This course will challenge students to analyze the application of psychological principles to the Star Wars universe, from The Phantom Menace to The Force Awakens. We will explore which personality traits and psychological disorders (depression, anxiety, psychopathy) apply to each character. We will discuss the use of mindfulness and other counseling techniques by the successful Jedi in their path to self-actualization. We will explore how interpersonal relationships, family dynamics, and loss/grief affect each character. We’ll discuss how Carl Jung’s conception of archetypes is present in the storyline. We’ll examine how the representation of gender roles has changed throughout the films. Through these topics (and more!), we will discover how psychological principles are present in everyday life and throughout the Star Wars universe.
Offered: Fall only, on demand
McDaniel Plan: First-Year Seminar