Week 1 Flashcards
1
Q
What is a theory?
A
An idea that can be tested. Theories can be supported or rejected.
2
Q
What is the theory-data cycle?
A
Theory - research question - research design - hypothesis - collect and analyse data - feed back into cycle.
3
Q
What makes a good theory?
A
Supported by data, falsifiable, parsimonious (simple)
4
Q
What makes a bad theory?
A
Intuition, anecdotes, personal experience
5
Q
Name an example of a bad theory.
A
Phrenology.
6
Q
What are the characteristics of pseudoscience?
A
Lack of falsifiability; lack of self-correction; emphasis on confirmation; evasion of peer-review; overreliance on testimonial and anecdotal evidence; use of hyper technical language.
