Features of a Science

Question 1

Objectivity

Answer 1

• Detatched methods
• Studies with high control
• Based on facts rather than opinions
• Universal

Question 2

Empirical method

Answer 2

• Rigorous, hard-core testing
• Data collection from direct sensory experience
• Concrete evidence

Question 3

Replicability

Answer 3

• The findings must be repeatable across a number of different contexts
• replicating over different contexts allows us to see the extent to which we can generalise results
• standardised procedure

Question 4

Falsifiability

Answer 4

• Prove a hypothesis wrong
• Popper: all swans are white were falsified when Australia has black swans
• Pseudosciences aren’t falsifiable
• good science aims to be falsifiable

Question 5

Theory construction & hypothesis testing

Answer 5

• gathering evidence via direct observation
• should be able to make clear and precise predictions
• alternative hypothesis accepted: theory is strengthened
• null hypothesis accepted: theory is revised based on deduction
-> theory
-> hypothesis
-> observation
-> confirmation

Question 6

Paradigms

Answer 6

• a clear, distinct agreed set of knowledge within a scientific field
-> evolution, plate tectonics
• Kuhn: psychology cannot be a science since there are too many internal conflicts, such as the approaches towards behaviour

Question 7

Paradigm Shifts

Answer 7

• Progress within a particular science occurs when there is a scientific revolution
• Kuhn: there has been no paradigm shifts
• :( Models of memory, attachment