PSY100H1 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1.2: Hermann Ebbinghaus, Kurt Lewin, Psyccritiques
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PSY100H1 Full Course Notes
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Document Summary
Science is a philosophy of knowledge that stems from 2 fundamental beliefs: empiricism and determinism. Empiricism is a philosophical tenet that knowledge comes through experience. Empiricism means that knowledge about the world is based on careful observation, not on common sense or speculation. Our results should be obtainable by others who follow the same methods. Determinism is the belief that all events are governed by lawful, cause-and-effect relationships. We feel as if we are in control of our own behaviors (we think we have free will), but there are compelling reasons to believe that some of our behaviors are determined. Behavior is determined by both internal (brain chemistry, genes) and external influences. Behavior can only be understood by making observations and testing hypothesis, and behavior occurs at several different levels (cells to society). Influences from the ancients: philosophical insights into behavior: Hippocrates believed that 4 humours or fluids flowed throughout the body and influenced both health and personality.
