The jury is still out if psychology is a science, but we believe that it can be considered one.
Psychology is a science because it follows the empirical method; it just doesn't use it in the same way "hard" sciences do. It's often touted by skeptics that psychology can't be a science because it lacks a defined terminology, quantifiability, and controlled experimental conditions.
However, psychology makes up for this by using consistent and semi-quantifiable definitions that make testable predictions possible. Statistics can compensate for controlled conditions.
Scientists still apply the scientific method to test theories and discover phenomena like any other science. But how can we be sure that psychology is a "real" science? Let's take a look.
10 Reasons Why Psychology is a Real Science
The term "real science" refers to "hard sciences" (physics, biology, chemistry), which tend to get more respect from the scientific community. However, soft sciences are still sciences because:
1. Soft Sciences Use the Scientific Method
The use of the scientific method is not exclusive to hard sciences. It's a vital part of psychology research jobs as well. Psychologists form hypotheses, carry out experiments and analyze the data obtained, mirroring the classic scientific method. This validates psychology as a science.
2. Data is Collected Through Observation or Experiment
In the realm of psychology, data collection hinges heavily on observation and experimentation. Much like their counterparts in other scientific fields, psychologists meticulously observe human behavior in natural settings or operate within controlled environments to conduct experiments.
3. Empirical Evidence Don't Rely on Argument or Belief
Psychology is strongly anchored in empirical evidence, distancing it from personal arguments or beliefs. The stress on fact-based conclusions as opposed to subjective theories lends strong credence to the claim that psychology is indeed a science aligned with other such disciplines.
4. Experiments Can be Repeated to Verify Work
In psychology, the replication of experiments for verification is practiced, a fundamental component of research. This act ensures that findings are consistent and trustworthy, reinforcing the notion that psychology emulates the rigors and practices of established scientific disciplines.
5. Researchers are Taught to be Unbiased
Unbiased research is the bedrock of all sciences, including psychology. Psychologists are taught to separate personal biases from their work, ensuring that the data gathered and interpretations made are objective. This practice mirrors standard procedures in other fields.
6. Scientists are Expected to be Objective
Objectivity is crucial in science, and this holds true for psychologists as well. They are expected to remain impartial when designing experiments, collecting data, or analyzing results. This consistent objective approach aligns psychology firmly with other recognized scientific fields.
7. All Variables in an Experience are Controlled
Psychologists meticulously manage all variables during an experiment to ensure that observed changes are due to the manipulated variable and not external factors. This rigorous control procedure underscores psychology's compatibility with other scientific practices.
8. Researchers Conduct Tests Hypothesis
Just as in any hard scientific discipline, psychology researchers regularly test hypotheses to come to an eventual, often specific conclusion. Using standard protocols such as experimental control groups and statistical analyses, they meticulously scrutinize their uncertain beliefs.
9. Data Must be Considered Reliable
In good scientific practice, data must be deemed reliable for significant results. Similarly, in psychology, data's dependability is key. Findings need to be consistent across repeated observations or experiments-a rule that guarantees reliability and mutual recognition.
10. Research Can Predict Behaviors
Integral to the science of psychology is the ability to predict future behavior based on past observations or experimental results. This forecasting aligns with one of the aims of scientific research: to anticipate future occurrences. This can successfully predict human behaviors.
In Conclusion...
As we make our way through this fascinating landscape that is psychology, remember that this discipline is no less scientific due to its focus on the human mind. Rather, like all sciences, it uses rigorous methods to explore its unique subject matter and form a logical conclusion.
