From the start of this course, we have emphasized the importance of research in shaping our understanding of human behavior and mental process. Several major studies and social psychology concepts were discussed. If a local church asked you to present 3 research studies or concepts as part of a "Psychology and Christian Life Seminar," which 3 would you pick and why? Come up with your top 3 and discuss why you selected them. Also, highlight how each one might be of value to Christians and/or the church. For your discussion thread, discuss the following:

Identify your top 3 studies/concepts, using citations from the textbook as you describe.
Discuss why you think they are most important to living.
Discuss how each study is consistent/inconsistent with a biblical worldview, as well as how it might be of value to Christians in the real world.

As we do not know the concepts that you studied, we are not able to pick from these. However, we can still provide examples of social psychology concepts that could be relevant in a Christian context:

Altruism

Altruism refers to the moral practice of being concerned about the well-being and happiness of others, whether these are humans or animals. Most of the time, an altruistic person would derive spiritual and mental satisfaction from engaging in behaviours that ensure the well-being of others. This is important to Christians because the Bible asks them to be charitable towards others. Moreover, the Bible also encourages them to care about their neighbours.

Theory of mind

The theory of mind is the ability to identify and attribute mental states to ourselves and others. This also allows us to understand that we might have beliefs, desires and intentions that are different from one another's. The theory of mind is important to Christianity because it allows Christians to understand their purpose in life, their connection to God and their place in the world.

Empathy

Empathy refers to the capacity of a person to understand others, and to think of things from their point of view. It is the capacity to put oneself in another's position. Empathy is important for Christians because it allows them to feel closer to others. Moreover, it enables them to feel more charitable towards others, and to think of everyone as children of God.

according to classical republican political theory, which democratic republics would function best?

a.   small republics, with people who had similar interests

b.   large republics, with people who had competing interests

c.   republics made up entirely of landowners

d.   republics made up entirely of servants

answer; genetics;