L5 - Features Of Science, Empirical Methods, Paradigms, Paradigm Shifts And Objectivity

Question 1

What are the key features of science?

Answer 1

• Systematic and controlled approach to creating knowledge that we can rely on to predict and control the world
• Includes experiments, observations and case studies.

Question 2

When is Psychology a science?

Answer 2

• Sample is large + representative
• Key words are defined + measured
• Confounding variables have been identified + controlled

Question 3

Define Empirical Methods

Answer 3

• Method of gaining knowledge relying on direct observation or testing
• Helps separate unfounded beliefs from real truth
• Look at facts and scientific evidence that can be directly tested using empirical evidence

Question 4

What is a Paradigm?

Answer 4

• Shared set of assumptions and agreed methods found within scientific approaches.
• Kuhn suggested what distinguishes scientific and non-scientific disciplines is the presence of paradigms.
• Social sciences lack a universal acceptance of paradigms, which is why they are thought of as Pre-sciences.
• Natural sciences have a no. of principles, but Psychology has too many internal disagreements and conflicting approaches

Question 5

What is a Paradigm Shift suggested by Kuhn

Answer 5

• The result of a scientific revolution occurs

- A significant change in the dominant unifying theory occurs and causes a paradigm shift.

Question 6

What are the 2 stages of a paradigm shift:

Answer 6

1) One theory is dominant and some researchers question it and have contradictory research. Counter evidence accumulates and becomes hard to ignore. Present paradigm is overthrown due to emergence of another
2) An established science makes rapid progress and a scientific revolution occurs due to the paradigm shift.

Question 7

Define Objectivity:

Answer 7

Dealing with facts in a way that is unaffected by beliefs, opinions, feelings or expectations

Question 8

How can a researcher maintain objectivity?

Answer 8

• Critical distance from research
• Not let their personal opinion affect the outcome of the research
• Findings should not be influenced by the psychologist
• High objectivity = increases other researchers confidence about results