Empiricism and the Scientific Method
38 Questions
1 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which approach would an empiricist most likely favor when trying to understand a new disease?

  • Relying on the pronouncements of established medical authorities and experts.
  • Examining and documenting the symptoms and progression of the disease in affected individuals. (correct)
  • Developing a detailed theoretical model of the body's immune responses.
  • Consulting ancient texts and historical records for similar outbreaks and treatments.

What is the MOST important role of empiricism in the scientific method?

  • Serving as the foundation for gathering evidence through observation. (correct)
  • Establishing universal truths through philosophical debate.
  • Ensuring that theories align with pre-existing beliefs.
  • Providing a framework for logical reasoning.

A researcher proposes that caffeine improves memory. Which step aligns with the scientific method?

  • Conducting experiments to measure memory performance with and without caffeine. (correct)
  • Relying on personal experiences and testimonials about caffeine's effects.
  • Accepting the claim as true based on the popularity of caffeine.
  • Ignoring contradictory evidence and focusing only on supporting evidence.

How does empiricism contrast with dogmatism in the context of understanding the world?

<p>Empiricism emphasizes observation, while dogmatism emphasizes established beliefs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A scientist observes bats using echolocation to navigate. According to the scientific method, what is the next step?

<p>Formulating a theory about how echolocation works and testing it through experiments. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why has empiricism gained prominence in recent centuries?

<p>Because it has consistently led to more accurate and reliable knowledge. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher believes that a new drug improves reaction time. What is the BEST way to test this belief using the scientific method?

<p>Comparing the reaction times of a group taking the drug to a control group not taking the drug. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A theory is proposed that explains how traumatic memories are formed. According to the scientific method, what should happen next?

<p>The theory should be tested through empirical observation and experimentation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the role of a hypothesis in the scientific method?

<p>It is a falsifiable prediction derived from a theory. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why can a scientific theory never be definitively proven right?

<p>New evidence might emerge in the future that contradicts the theory. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios exemplifies a falsifiable hypothesis?

<p>Individuals with higher education tend to earn more income. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of Eadweard Muybridge's photographs of galloping horses?

<p>They settled a long-standing debate about whether all four of a horse's hooves are simultaneously off the ground while galloping. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Ibn al-Haytham challenge the classical theory of vision?

<p>By arguing that if the classical theory were correct, seeing distant objects would take longer than seeing nearby ones. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is using an 'empirical method' important when testing hypotheses?

<p>It provides a structured and systematic approach to observation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a scientific theory from a non-scientific one?

<p>Scientific theories make falsifiable predictions that can be tested through observation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the primary reason why human behavior is difficult to study?

<p>Humans are extremely complex. (E)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Galileo Galilei faced difficulties primarily because:

<p>His observations contradicted established doctrines. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a study finds that students who study longer hours tend to get better grades, which of the following is a valid conclusion?

<p>There is a correlation between study hours and grades, but this doesn't prove causation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Imagine a new theory suggests that wearing blue shirts increases happiness. Which of the following is a falsifiable hypothesis derived from this theory?

<p>People who wear blue shirts are happier than those who don't. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher proposes that watching violent movies leads to aggressive behavior. What would be the next step, according to the scientific method?

<p>Derive a falsifiable hypothesis from the theory. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are microscopes and telescopes important tools in science?

<p>They allow scientists to observe things that are invisible to the naked eye. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios demonstrates a challenge in gathering empirical evidence about human behavior?

<p>Determining how people react to different marketing strategies. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A study finds that people who drink coffee every day are more productive at work. However, many of these people also have high-stress jobs. What is the most siginificant limitation of this study?

<p>The study does not account for the influence of stressful jobs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following poses a significant challenge to the scientific study of human behavior?

<p>The fact that human beings are extremely complex, variable, and reactive. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main categories of methods that psychologists use to meet the challenges of studying human behavior?

<p>Methods of observation and methods of explanation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what was one of the primary reasons for the historical underrepresentation of women in science?

<p>Educational and employment opportunities for women in science were limited. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term did William Whewell coin in 1834, and who was it used to describe?

<p>Scientist, describing Mary Somerville. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, in what areas do men and women differ in ways that are scientifically relevant?

<p>Quantitative ability and visuo-spatial ability. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean that men are 'more variable' than women on measures of quantitative ability?

<p>Men are found more at both the high and low ends of the quantitative ability spectrum. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which scientific fields are men NOT overrepresented, according to the information provided?

<p>Biology, psychology, and sociology. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What trend has been observed regarding gender gaps in hard sciences in countries with high gender equality?

<p>The gender gap is more pronounced for countries with more gender equality, which indicates a result of choice instead of societal pressures. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the conclusion from experts regarding sex differences in spatial and mathematical reasoning?

<p>Sex differences in these abilities are likely influenced by environmental factors, and there is no compelling evidence to suggest they are innate. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the scientific community's current understanding of sex differences in abilities and interests?

<p>There is an ongoing debate regarding the balance of innate and environmental influences. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is studying the effects of a new teaching method on student performance in mathematics. To account for the challenges of studying human behavior, which approach would be most suitable?

<p>Using both observational and explanatory methods, while acknowledging the complexity, variability, and reactivity of the students. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A university is trying to increase the representation of women in its computer science program. Based on the content, which of the following strategies would be most effective?

<p>Promoting programs and resources that encourage girls' interest and skills in math and STEM fields from a young age. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A psychologist is designing a study to investigate the impact of social media use on adolescent self-esteem. Considering the reactive nature of human subjects, what should the psychologist do?

<p>Use unobtrusive observation methods and ensure participants are unaware of being observed. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best reflects Leta Hollingworth's perspective on women's historical roles?

<p>Women's primary role as child bearers and housekeepers limited their opportunities for eminence. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Recent research suggests that the cognitive differences between men and women in math-intensive fields:

<p>May be decreasing over time, suggesting a strong influence of environmental factors. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Empiricism

The conviction that accurate knowledge is acquired through observation.

Dogmatism

Clinging to one's beliefs, regardless of evidence.

Scientific Method

A procedure for establishing facts using empirical evidence.

Theories

Explanations of natural phenomena.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Importance of Observation

Direct observation is crucial for understanding nature accurately.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Empirical Evidence Usage

Making observations to see if an idea is true.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Shift in Trust

Trusting observation over authority.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Fact Establishment

Using empirical evidence to establish facts.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Scientific Theories

Explanations of how and why natural phenomena occur.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Falsifiable Hypothesis

A prediction that can be proven false through observation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Proving a Theory

Observations consistent with a theory increase confidence but don't guarantee it's 100% correct.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Bat Navigation Theory

The theory that bats navigate by emitting sounds and listening for echoes.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Hypothesis

A specific prediction about what should be observed if a theory is true.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Empirical Evidence

Collecting information through observation and measurement.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Empirical Method

A set of rules and techniques for objective observation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Disconfirmed Hypothesis

Observations or data that disagree/contrast the hypothesis.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Galileo Galilei

Astronomer who supported empirical observation of the solar system, challenging the Catholic Church.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Method in Science

Tools or technologies that improve the power of our senses for observation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Studying Human Behaviour

Human beings, unlike cells or stars, has three qualities that make them complicated to study.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Galloping Horse

Galloping horses have all four feet off the ground at the same time for a brief instance

Signup and view all the flashcards

Human

A complexity that makes them more difficult to study than either cells or stars.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Psychology

The scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behavior in a specific context.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Human Variability

People vary greatly in their thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Human Reactivity

People change their behavior when they suspect they are being observed.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Observation Methods

Methods to discover what people do.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Explanation Methods

Methods to discover why people do what they do.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Historical Barriers

Educational and work opportunities for women were historically limited, hindering their participation in science.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Scientifically Relevant Abilities

Quantitative and visuo-spatial abilities.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Variance in Abilities

Males show greater variance in quantitative and visuo-spatial abilities.

Signup and view all the flashcards

"Math Intensive" Fields

Fields heavily reliant on mathematical skills.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Equality Paradox

Gender gaps in hard sciences are largest in countries with high gender equality.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Environmental Influence

Environmental factors influence interests and skills more so than innate differences.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Quantitative Ability

The ability to use numbers effectively; related to math skills.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Visuo-Spatial Ability

The ability to understand spatial relationships and manipulate images in the mind.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gender Differences

Differences in interests, skills, and opportunities between genders.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ratio Fluctuation

The ratio of men to woman can change in STEM as the access to resources and opportunities increases.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

  • Empiricism asserts accurate knowledge comes from observation.

Origins of Empiricism

  • Dogmatists believed understanding illness required theories of bodily functions.
  • Empiricists thought examining sick individuals was the route to understanding illness.
  • Empiricism is the backbone of the scientific method.

Scientific Method

  • Proposes that ideas about the world are tested through observation.
  • Theories are explanations of natural phenomena.
  • Theories are explanations of how and why things work in the natural world.
  • Hypotheses are falsifiable predictions derived from theories.
  • Falsifiability is crucial; untestable theories cannot be evaluated using the scientific method.
  • Theories cannot be proven right, only supported by consistent observations.

Gathering Evidence

  • The scientific method involves:
    • Developing a theory
    • Deriving a falsifiable hypothesis
    • Testing the hypothesis through empirical evidence.
  • Empiricism requires more than observation; it needs a structured method.

Empirical Method

  • An empirical method provides rules and techniques for observation.
  • Many sciences use technology to enhance senses for observation.

Challenges of Studying Human Behavior

  • People are complex, variable, and reactive.
  • Complexity arises from the intricate connections within the human brain.
  • Variability means no two people behave identically under the same conditions.
  • Reactivity refers to people behaving differently when observed.
  • Psychologists address these challenges with methods of observation and explanation.

Gender and Science

  • Historically, science has been dominated by men due to limited opportunities for women.
  • Men and women may have differing interests and talents influencing scientific pursuits.
  • Men show more variability in quantitative and visuo-spatial abilities.
  • Variability means more men at both the low and high ends of the talent spectrum.
  • Men are overrepresented in math-intensive scientific fields, reflecting ability distributions.
  • Gender gaps are largest in "hard sciences" in nations with high gender equality.
  • Differing interests may lead women away from certain scientific fields when given a choice.
  • Evidence suggests sex differences in science are not solely innate.
  • Environmental factors and encouragement play a significant role in developing interests and skills.
  • It is believed there are no definitive answers regarding sex differences in science.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Description

Explore empiricism, the belief that accurate knowledge comes from observation. Learn how it contrasts with dogmatism and forms the basis of the scientific method. Understand the roles of theories, falsifiable hypotheses, and empirical evidence in testing ideas about the world.

More Like This

Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Open
Browser
Browser