Watson's assertion that psychology should prioritize the study of observable behavior over consciousness reflected a commitment to what, thereby aiming to establish psychology as a... Watson's assertion that psychology should prioritize the study of observable behavior over consciousness reflected a commitment to what, thereby aiming to establish psychology as a rigorously scientific discipline?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the philosophical and methodological commitment that is reflected by John B. Watson's emphasis on observable behavior over consciousness in psychology. It seeks to identify the approach or principle that Watson was adhering to in order to establish psychology as a scientific discipline.
Answer
The answer is empiricism.
Watson's assertion reflected a commitment to empiricism, aiming to establish psychology as a rigorously scientific discipline by focusing on observable behaviors rather than consciousness.
Answer for screen readers
Watson's assertion reflected a commitment to empiricism, aiming to establish psychology as a rigorously scientific discipline by focusing on observable behaviors rather than consciousness.
More Information
John B. Watson was a key figure in developing behaviorism. His emphasis on observable behavior was a departure from previous psychological approaches that focused on introspection and consciousness, which he believed were too subjective for scientific study.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse introspection with empiricism. Introspection is the examination of one's own conscious thoughts and feelings, which Watson opposed. Empiricism relies on observable and measurable data.
Sources
- John B. Watson: Contribution to Psychology - simplypsychology.org
- CHAPTER-12-13-HISTORY (pdf) - CliffsNotes - cliffsnotes.com
- Psychology as the Behaviorist Views it. John B. Watson (1913). - psychclassics.yorku.ca
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