The Psychology of Scientific Inquiry

The Psychology of Scientific Inquiry
Author: Aaro Toomela
Publisher: Springer Nature
Total Pages: 132
Release: 2019-11-05
Genre: Psychology
ISBN: 3030314499

This brief sets out on a course to distinguish three main kinds of thought that underlie scientific thinking. Current science has not agreed on an understanding of what exactly the aim of science actually is, how to understand scientific knowledge, and how such knowledge can be achieved. Furthermore, no science today also explicitly admits the fact that knowledge can be constructed in different ways and therefore every scientist should be able to recognize the form of thought that under-girds their understanding of scientific theory. In response to this, this texts seeks to answer the questions: What is science? What is (scientific) explanation? What is causality and why it matters? Science is a way to find new knowledge. The way we think about the world constrains the aspects of it we can understand. Scientists, the author suggests, should engage in a metacognitive perspective on scientific theory that reflects not only what exists in the world, but also the way the scientist thinks about the world.

Scientific Inquiry

Scientific Inquiry
Author: Robert Klee
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
Total Pages: 374
Release: 1999
Genre: History
ISBN:

An anthology of contemporary and classical readings in the philosophy of science aimed at undergraduates in philosophy and science. Focuses on the main issues in philosophy of science: the structure of theories, models of scientific explanation, reductionism, the objectivity of science, and the proper interpretation of mature scientific theories.

The Psychology of Science and the Origins of the Scientific Mind

The Psychology of Science and the Origins of the Scientific Mind
Author: Gregory J. Feist
Publisher: Yale University Press
Total Pages: 336
Release: 2008-10-01
Genre: Psychology
ISBN: 0300133480

In this book, Gregory Feist reviews and consolidates the scattered literatures on the psychology of science, then calls for the establishment of the field as a unique discipline. He offers the most comprehensive perspective yet on how science came to be possible in our species and on the important role of psychological forces in an individual’s development of scientific interest, talent, and creativity. Without a psychological perspective, Feist argues, we cannot fully understand the development of scientific thinking or scientific genius. The author explores the major subdisciplines within psychology as well as allied areas, including biological neuroscience and developmental, cognitive, personality, and social psychology, to show how each sheds light on how scientific thinking, interest, and talent arise. He assesses which elements of scientific thinking have their origin in evolved mental mechanisms and considers how humans may have developed the highly sophisticated scientific fields we know today. In his fascinating and authoritative book, Feist deals thoughtfully with the mysteries of the human mind and convincingly argues that the creation of the psychology of science as a distinct discipline is essential to deeper understanding of human thought processes.

Scientific Research in Education

Scientific Research in Education
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
Total Pages: 204
Release: 2002-03-28
Genre: Education
ISBN: 0309133092

Researchers, historians, and philosophers of science have debated the nature of scientific research in education for more than 100 years. Recent enthusiasm for "evidence-based" policy and practice in educationâ€"now codified in the federal law that authorizes the bulk of elementary and secondary education programsâ€"have brought a new sense of urgency to understanding the ways in which the basic tenets of science manifest in the study of teaching, learning, and schooling. Scientific Research in Education describes the similarities and differences between scientific inquiry in education and scientific inquiry in other fields and disciplines and provides a number of examples to illustrate these ideas. Its main argument is that all scientific endeavors share a common set of principles, and that each fieldâ€"including education researchâ€"develops a specialization that accounts for the particulars of what is being studied. The book also provides suggestions for how the federal government can best support high-quality scientific research in education.

Science as Social Knowledge

Science as Social Knowledge
Author: Helen E. Longino
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Total Pages: 274
Release: 2020-03-31
Genre: Philosophy
ISBN: 0691209758

Conventional wisdom has it that the sciences, properly pursued, constitute a pure, value-free method of obtaining knowledge about the natural world. In light of the social and normative dimensions of many scientific debates, Helen Longino finds that general accounts of scientific methodology cannot support this common belief. Focusing on the notion of evidence, the author argues that a methodology powerful enough to account for theories of any scope and depth is incapable of ruling out the influence of social and cultural values in the very structuring of knowledge. The objectivity of scientific inquiry can nevertheless be maintained, she proposes, by understanding scientific inquiry as a social rather than an individual process. Seeking to open a dialogue between methodologists and social critics of the sciences, Longino develops this concept of "contextual empiricism" in an analysis of research programs that have drawn criticism from feminists. Examining theories of human evolution and of prenatal hormonal determination of "gender-role" behavior, of sex differences in cognition, and of sexual orientation, the author shows how assumptions laden with social values affect the description, presentation, and interpretation of data. In particular, Longino argues that research on the hormonal basis of "sex-differentiated behavior" involves assumptions not only about gender relations but also about human action and agency. She concludes with a discussion of the relation between science, values, and ideology, based on the work of Habermas, Foucault, Keller, and Haraway.

Understanding the Mind

Understanding the Mind
Author: Prince Of Peace
Publisher: Independently Published
Total Pages: 0
Release: 2024-04-11
Genre: Education
ISBN:

The Evolution of Psychology and Science As educators teaching the subject of "The Evolution of Psychology and Science," it is essential to understand the interconnected nature of these two disciplines. The history of psychology and science has been entwined since the early days of modern scientific inquiry. From the pioneering work of psychologists like Wilhelm Wundt and William James to the development of the scientific method by figures such as Francis Bacon and Galileo Galilei, the evolution of psychology and science has been a collaborative and symbiotic process. One of the key aspects to consider in this evolution is the role of cognitive biases in scientific research. As psychologists, we must be aware of the various biases that can influence our research and strive to mitigate their impact. By understanding how these biases can shape our perceptions and interpretations of data, we can ensure that our scientific inquiries are rigorous and unbiased. Furthermore, the role of motivation in scientific discovery cannot be understated. Psychologists have long studied the factors that drive scientists to pursue new knowledge and push the boundaries of their fields. By understanding the psychological underpinnings of motivation, educators can help cultivate a sense of curiosity and passion for scientific inquiry in their students. The psychology of scientific collaboration is another crucial aspect to consider. In an increasingly interconnected world, collaboration between scientists from different disciplines and backgrounds is essential for making groundbreaking discoveries. Educators must teach their students the importance of effective communication, teamwork, and mutual respect in scientific collaborations.

The Psychology of Inquiry

The Psychology of Inquiry
Author: Freudian Trips
Publisher: Independently Published
Total Pages: 0
Release: 2023-10-02
Genre:
ISBN:

Dive into the captivating world of psychological research with this accessible and enlightening guide. Unravel the mysteries of the human mind as you journey through the history, methods, and future of psychology. From ancient thinkers to modern-day breakthroughs, this book offers a comprehensive yet easy-to-understand look at the scientific method's pivotal role in psychology. Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply a curious soul, this book will open your eyes to the intricacies of human behavior, the importance of empirical evidence, and the ethical considerations that safeguard the quest for knowledge. With vivid analogies, engaging narratives, and clear explanations, "The Psychology of Inquiry" is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the science of the mind.

Why Science Matters

Why Science Matters
Author: Robert W. Proctor
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell
Total Pages: 248
Release: 2006-01-10
Genre: Psychology
ISBN: 9781405133579

Why Science Matters: Understanding the Methods of Psychological Research rises above standard research methods texts by presenting an up-to-date view of contemporary psychological science as it is currently understood and practiced. Explores not only the procedural aspects of psychological research, but also delves into the issue of how to accomplish effective science. Explicates how hypotheses and theories are to be evaluated. Suggests that the proper approach to devising and evaluating theories is by abduction, not by induction or deduction alone. Incorporates new investigatory procedures, current methodologists, conflicts and issues, implications of the philosophy of science, and a lively prose style. Provides a picture of science that will engage students and expand their abilities as both scientists and psychologists.