Features of Science

Question 1

What are the features of a science?

Answer 1

Objectivity, empirical methods, falsifiability, paradigm, theory construction

Question 2

Define paradigm

Answer 2

Shared assumptions and agreed methods within a scientific development

Question 3

What is a paradigm shift?

Answer 3

Change in dominant unifying theory within a scientific discipline

Question 4

What is theory construction?

Answer 4

Occurs through gathering evidence from direct observation and using empirical method

Question 5

What is hypothesis testing?

Answer 5

Using systematic and objective methods to determine whether a hypothesis will be supported or refuted

Question 6

How is a paradigm involved in psychology?

Answer 6

Kuhn argued that psychology lacks universally accepted theory
- however we can see some paradigm shifts occurring such as approaches from behaviourist —> cognitive —> cognitive neuroscience

Question 7

How is falsifiability involved in psychology?

Answer 7

Popper argued that the key criteria of scientific theory is falsifiability
- stated theories should be able to be proven false to have scientific validity
- in psychology alternative hypothesis always accompanied by null