Features Of Science Flashcards
What is a paradigm
A set of shared assumptions and agreed methods within a scientific discipline
What is a paradigm shift
The result of a scientific revolution: a significant change in the dominant unifying theory within a scientific discipline, occurs when there is too much contradictory evidence to ignore
What is objectivity
When all sources of personal bias are minimised so as not to influence the research process
What is the empirical method
Scientific approaches that are based on the gathering of evidence through direct observation and experience
What is a theory
A set of general principles that have the ability to explain particular events/behaviours
What is replicability
The extent to which scientific procedures and findings can be repeated by other researchers
What is falsifiability
The principle that a theory cannot be considered scientific unless it admits the possibility of being proven untrue, should hold itself up for hypothesis testing
What is theory construction
Occurs through gathering evidence via direct observation using the empirical method
What is hypothesis testing
Making clear and precise predictions on the basis of a theory
Why might psychology not be considered a science
As it has too many internal disagreements
Paradigm shifts that have occurred in psychology
Behaviourist approach then cognitive approach then cognitive neuroscience
