Abstract
Unexpected empirical findings lead Schwarz (2009) to question current methodological approaches within psychology. He claims that distribution anomalies, which cannot be explained by independent variables, actually prove an error in classical test theory, which then leads him to criticize current scientific conventionalism. In this commentary, it is shown that the current university system not only uses, but often reproduces conventionalism. It is, of course, necessary to teach certain techniques and tools to future psychologists, but using these critically seem to be essential in preventing scientific approaches turn into ideologies that are or must not be questioned—even if this is sometimes less threatening to one’s identity as a scientist/psychologist. This is true for all sciences, but understanding the bio-psycho-social interdependencies of human nature (ambiguities), as Schwarz describes it, seems to be a particular challenge that is in many ways different from other disciplines. Instead of striving to be like them, it is suggested we establish an ambiguity-accepting and critical environment in psychology in which theories and approaches are not considered final but temporary to foster change and progress.
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Notes
According to Zittoun (2006), rupture-transitions are an interruption of the normal flow of events (catastrophes) in an individual’s life, transitions are the following attempts of reconstruction.
“What is reality?” is another question to be posed and discussed.
Translates into: wisdom’s last conclusion.
Raptures like in Schwarz’ case might lead to a re-evaluation. He might later become part of a new group that understands itself as not affiliated to a certain school, but which defines itself as “critical.” This group can form another opposition and exchange might again become difficult. Being critical does not ensure “inter-fragmental” exchange.
The Oxford Dictionary defines psychology as “the scientific study of the human mind and its functions” (see http://www.askoxford.com/concise_oed/psychology?view=uk).
Another difficulty is that sometimes one concept is defined by other, not less broad concepts that again need to be defined. According to Sternberg (1986), for example, there are three factors in the love triangle model—intimacy, passion, and commitment. Commitment alone can be understood in many different ways.
Theories or paradigms should be considered temporary by nature. If we found THE theory, research would become redundant, because we would be able to explain everything before we even start to collect data. Since finding the ultimate, overarching theory is unlikely, maybe even impossible, the goal must be to alter and improve the existing theories and paradigms.
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Acknowledgment
I would like to thank Noemi Pizarroso and Zack Beckstead for their helpful comments and inspiring discussions. I also thank Lisa Mann for editing this paper.
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Watzlawik, M. “Der Weisheits letzter Schluss”? Wisdom’s Last Conclusion?. Integr. psych. behav. 43, 214–220 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12124-009-9094-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12124-009-9094-y