Feaures Of Science Flashcards
What is objectivity?
When observations are made from a neutral perspective without bias, rather than a scientist’s subjective viewpoint (e.g. using a set of scales to determine which of 2 objects is heavier rather than a researcher lifting each and giving their opinion)
What is replicability?
When scientific procedures can be repeated to double-check the findings are valid
What is falsifiability?
The idea that for something to be proven correct, you need to give it the opportunity for it to be proven false.
What is a paradigm?
shared assumptions and methods within a scientific discipline
Does psychology have a paradigm?
According to Kuhn, no. We can see this best in the Approaches to Behaviour (SLT, behavioural, humanistic, psychodynamic etc.)
What is a paradigm shift?
When there is a significant change in the dominant unifying theory within a scientific discipline
What is the 1st stage of a paradigm shift?
A handful of researchers begin questioning the accepted paradigm with evidence
What is the second stage of a paradigm shift?
The critique then gathers popularity and pace among the scientific community
What is the 3rd stage of a paradigm shift?
Eventually there is too much contradictory evidence to ignore
What is the 4th and final stage of a paradigm shift?
There is a paradigm shift -> new paradigm
What is a theory?
A set of general laws or principles that have the ability to explain particular events or behaviours
How are theories constructed?
Through gathering evidence via direct observation
What is the point of hypothesis testing?
Theory will be strengthened if hypothesis supports theory
Theory will need to be revised if hypothesis goes against theory
