The Origins of Good and Evil: One of the most surprising findings from modern psychology is that even babies have a rich moral sense--they distinguish between good and bad acts and prefer good characters over bad ones. They feel compassion for others, and might even possess a primitive sense of justice. But this moral sense is narrow. Many principles that are central to adult morality, such as kindness to strangers, are the product of our intelligence and our imagination; they are not in our genes. PAUL BLOOM is the Brooks and Suzanne Ragen Professor of Psychology at Yale. He has written for journals such as Nature and Science, and for popular outlets such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, and he teaches a very popular Introduction to Psychology course.

Historical perspective on same-sex marriage in the United States, in the light of the Supreme Court's recent decision. Why marriage equality became a major controversy, and how social attitudes changed so quickly. Comparison to Ireland, which also legalized same-sex marriage in the summer.

History of the idea of the apocalypse, from the Bible to 2012. Ways in which end-time beliefs have influenced politics and society, from the American Revolution to the Islamic State. Some attention to representations of the end of the world in literature and popular culture.

How might the world as we know it come to an end? We will explore this question through an inter-disciplinary lens, from the perspectives of history, geography, science, literature, and religion.

In many (but not all) societies, women have traditionally been marginalized. In the light of this, how have women risen to positions of power? How have they exercised their influence and authority? This class will take a transhistorical, cross-cultural, and quasi-biographical approach to these questions. Some consideration of theoretical issues involved.

Have you ever wondered what you parents are referring to when they talk about the Berlin Wall or Doris Day? If so, this class is for you. In the span of an hour, we will explore the main historical trends in the second half of the 20th century, through Billy Joel's pop song, "We Didn't Start the Fire". We will also look at issues of memory, interpretation, and perspective. At the end of the course, you may even get a chance to compose your own anthem for the early 21st century!