Why Science Matters Understanding the Methods of Psychological Research [Hardcover]

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• Explores not only the procedural aspects of psychological research, but also delves into the issue of how to accomplish effective science.
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• Explicates how hypotheses and theories are to be evaluated.
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• Suggests that the proper approach to devising and evaluating theories is by abduction, not by induction or deduction alone.
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• Incorporates new investigatory procedures, current methodologists, conflicts and issues, implications of the philosophy of science, and a lively prose style.
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• Provides a picture of science that will engage students and expand their abilities as both scientists and psychologists.

Preface for Instructors viii

Preface for Students x

Part 1: Major Methodological Changes in Science from Antiquity to the Present 1

Chapter 1: Understanding Science: The Armchair versus Practice 3

Introduction 3

Justification of methodological practices 4

Precursors to contemporary science: an historical overview 8

Research paradigms, programs, and traditions 14

Naturalism: a brief introduction 16

Remainder of book 18

Chapter summary 19

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