The Origins Of Psychology

Question 1

What is Empiricism?

Answer 1

The belief that all knowledge is derived from sensory experience and is characterised by the scientific method

Question 2

What is the scientific method?

Answer 2

Refers to the use of investigative methods that are objective systematic and replicable, and the formulation testing and modification of hypotheses based on these methods

Question 3

What is introspection?

Answer 3

The process by which a person gains knowledge of his/her own mental and emotional state as a result of examination or observation of their conscious thoughts/feelings

Question 4

What are the strengths of the origins in psychology?

Answer 4

1. Scientific approach to psychology is based upon objective systematic methods and therefore is more reliable
2. Results both empirical and replicable
3. Introspection is still used in scientific psychology today

Question 5

What are the limitations of the origins of psychology?

Answer 5

1. Wundt’s methods were unreliable as memory and perception etc were considered unobservable
2. Introspection isn’t very accurate - Nesbitt and Wilson 1977 discovered that some ideas exist outside conscious awareness such as racism and
   therefore introspection won’t uncover
   it
3. Limited ecological validity