Sheet 2 - origins of psychology: Wundt, introspection and emergence of psychology as a science

What do empiricists believe?

that knowledge comes from observation and experience alone (rather than being innate)

What did empirical methods being applied cause?

Psychology to emerge as a distinct entity

What were the two assumptions of the new scientific approach to psychology?

1. All behaviours is been as being caused (determinism)
2. If behaviour is determined, then it should be predictable

What are the key features of a science?

Objective, measurement, replicable, theories

What does objective mean?

Researchers do not let preconceived ideas or biases influence the collection of data

How are measurements and recording of data carried out?

Carried out accurately and with due consideration for the possible influence of other factors on the results obtained.

What does replicable mean?

Observations can be repeated by other researchers to determine whether the same results can be obtained

What happens if results are not replicable?

They are not reliable and cannot be accepted as universally true

What completes the scientific cycle?

the development of scientific theories and the constant testing and refining of these theories through further observation

Psychology in BC

Psychology traces its roots back to being experimental. Great thinkers such as Socrates influenced Plato who influenced Aristotle. Philosophy.