Holism & Reductionism

Question 1

Define holism

Answer 1

Belief in analysising a person or behaviour as a whole, indivisible system

Question 2

Define reductionism

Answer 2

Belief that humans behaviour is best explained when broken down in smaller, constituent parts

Question 3

Describe biological reductionism

Answer 3

Attempts to explain social and psychological phenomena at a lower biological level –> explained throufh neurochemical, evolutionary and genetic influences

Question 4

Describe environmental reductionism

Answer 4

Attempts to break down complex behaviour into simpler, stimulus-response links which are learnt through experience –> focused at physical level, not concerned with cognitive processes

Question 5

What are the different levels of explanation for reductionism?

Answer 5

Higher levels - social and cultural explanation –> more holistic
Middle levels - psychological levels
Lower level- biological explanations –> more reductionist