2.4: Holism and reductionism

Question 1

Which of the following best describes a reductionist approach in psychology?
A: Explaining behaviour in a complicated way in terms of complex mechanisms.
B: Explaining behaviour in a simple way in terms of basic units.
C: Explaining behaviour in one way and ignoring all other explanations.
D: Explaining behaviour in several different ways at the same time
(1 mark)

Answer 1

B

Question 2

Briefly outline what psychologists mean by ‘levels of explanation’ (2 marks)

Answer 2

Explanations vary from those at a lower or fundamental level focusing on basic components or units to those at a higher more holistic multivariable level

Question 3

Briefly outline what is meant by biological reductionism (2 marks)

Answer 3

Biological reductionism explains behaviour by reference to biological systems, for example that behaviour is shaped by genetics, evolution, biochemistry and brain
structures