CHAPTER 2
Paradigmatic Psychology
This chapter develops a coherent paradigmatic world view within which scientific research in psychology can be seen, and within which the different areas of psychology can be understood. The approach will be to start at the most global level of human endeavors and focus down to the specific areas of scientific research in psychology. In this way scientific research in psychology will be seen within its context, and will therefore be more comprehendible.
I. Relevance of a Paradigmatic Framework
A. Decision based on paradigmatic framework (science)
1. systematic, public, accountable rationale for decision
2. systematic, public, accountable framework with which to organize results
3. feedback and, therefore, systematic advance
B. Decision by “whim,” “guess,” or “intuition” (eclectic)
1. no systematic rationale for decision
2. no systematic framework with which to organize results
3. no feedback and, therefore, no systematic advance
Date Last Reviewed : November 17, 2002