Week 8 Philosphy Of Science Flashcards
What are key characteristics of science?
Systematic, objective, findings are repeatable, controlled experimentation, disproving hypotheses (Feynman’s approach)
Feynman emphasized the importance of disproving hypotheses to advance scientific understanding.
What is Popper’s Falsification Theory?
A hypothesis cannot be proven, only disproven, and a theory is scientific if it is falsifiable
Popper argued that scientific theories must be testable and capable of being refuted.
What challenges are associated with Popper’s Falsification Theory?
Some statements aren’t reducible to simple claims; auxiliary assumptions complicate falsification, and technological or historical changes can affect refutation
These challenges highlight the complexities of scientific testing and refutation.
What is Kuhn’s Scientific Revolution Theory?
Science progresses through paradigm shifts, where a new framework of methods and explanations replaces the old one
Kuhn introduced the concept of paradigms to explain scientific progress.
Can you give examples of paradigm shifts in science?
Changes in atomic theory, DNA theory, and in psychology (psychodynamic to behaviorist to cognitive approaches)
These shifts illustrate how scientific understanding evolves over time.
What are limitations of Kuhn’s paradigm shift theory?
Difficulty in defining the amount of change needed for a shift, and new paradigms aren’t always superior
These limitations suggest that not all scientific advancements lead to better theories.
Why is psychology considered a science?
It systematically studies mind and behavior, uses controlled experiments, and applies empirical and statistical verification
This definition aligns psychology with the principles of scientific inquiry.
What challenges does psychology face as a science?
Lack of a unified paradigm, inconsistent definitions, and challenges in verifying internal processes
These issues complicate the establishment of psychology as a cohesive scientific discipline.
What misconceptions does the public have about psychology?
Psychology is often confused with psychotherapy, seen as therapy-focused, and doubted in scientific rigor
These misconceptions can undermine the credibility of the field.
How does Lilienfeld address the misconception that ‘psychology is merely common sense’?
He highlights the myths in society about human behavior and explains psychology’s basis in controlled experiments and statistical methods
Lilienfeld’s work emphasizes the scientific foundations of psychological theories.
What is the replication crisis in psychology?
Difficulties in replicating findings, lack of incentives for replication studies, and challenges in scientific transparency
The replication crisis raises concerns about the reliability of psychological research.
What transparency issues affect psychology?
Limited data transparency, questionable practices like p-hacking, and selective data analysis
These practices can lead to distorted findings in psychological research.
What is ‘confirmation bias’ in psychological research?
The tendency to favor theories due to personal bias, which can lead to overinvestment in certain ideas
Confirmation bias can skew research outcomes and interpretations.
What are some external threats to psychology as a science?
Political correctness, resurgence of common-sense theories, and influence of pseudoscience
These threats can undermine the scientific integrity of psychology.
How can psychology improve its scientific image?
By enhancing rigorous practices, educating the public, distinguishing scientific from professional psychology, and addressing critical psychology
These steps can help clarify the scientific basis of psychology.
What is critical psychology?
A postmodern approach viewing psychological science as socially and culturally influenced, questioning its objectivity and Western individualism
Critical psychology challenges traditional views and emphasizes context in psychological research.
What is the role of socio-historical context in science?
It influences scientific development, showing that science is not necessarily value-free or universal
This perspective highlights the impact of societal influences on scientific progress.
What is the hypothetico-deductive method used in psychological science?
A method of developing hypotheses and testing them through controlled experiments
This method is foundational for empirical research in psychology.
Why is public skepticism about psychology prevalent?
Due to confusion with therapy, misconceptions about methods, and doubts about its scientific rigor
Public skepticism can hinder the acceptance of psychological findings.
Name one recommended reading to better understand the scientific issues in psychology.
“Historical and Conceptual Issues in Psychology” by Brysbaert & Rastle
This reading provides insights into the foundational issues facing psychological science.
