Understanding Human Differences

The content of this text is grounded in interdisciplinary research from the behavioral and social sciences including education, psychology, sociology, biology, history, and anthropology. After a brief introduction, each chapter consists of leading questions and responses based on interdisciplinary research and author expertise. Through this inquiry format, the authors encourage students to discuss and debate topics, thereby promoting a deeper understanding of the issues addressed within each chapter. In the chapters examining issues stemming from race, gender, social class, sexual orientation and disability, stereotypes, myths and misconceptions are confronted. Students are challenged to reconsider their perceptions of individuals if their perceptions are based on such stereotypes and misconceptions.