2.4: Holism and reductionism

Question 1

Dr Grant and Dr Austin both study people with depression. Dr Grant carries out experimental research to investigate the brain chemistry of people with depression. Dr Austin carries out unstructured interviews with people with depression to find out about their symptoms and various aspects of their lives, including their general behaviour and their relationships.

Referring to the item above, explain what is meant by holism and reductionism (4 marks)

Answer 1

Holism is focusing on the whole system or person, whereas reductionism is focusing on constituent elements or smaller, simpler aspects of the whole system or person

Question 2

Dr Grant and Dr Austin both study people with depression. Dr Grant carries out experimental research to investigate the brain chemistry of people with depression. Dr Austin carries out unstructured interviews with people with depression to find out about their symptoms and various aspects of their lives, including their general behaviour and their relationships.

Referring to the item above, explain what is meant by holism and reductionism (4 marks).
Holism is focusing on the whole system or person, whereas reductionism is focusing on constituent elements or smaller, simpler aspects of the whole system or person.

Answer 2

Dr Grant takes a reductionist approach by focusing just on biological mechanisms, whereas Dr Austin takes a more holistic approach by focusing on broader experiences and circumstances