What′s Behind the Research?: Discovering Hidden Assumptions in the Behavioral Sciences

by Brent D. Slife, Richard N. Williams

This volume encourages students to engage in critical thinking by exploring the main assumptions upon which behavioral science theories are based and offering some alternatives to these assumptions. The text begins with a review and critique of the major theoretical approaches: psychoanalysis, behaviorism, humanism, cognitivism, eclecticism, structuralism and postmodernism. The authors then discuss the key assumptions underlying these theories - knowing, determinism, reductionism and science. They trace the intellectual history of these assumptions and offer contrasting options. The book concludes by examining ways of coming to terms with some of the inadequacies in the assumptions of the behavioral sciences.

Genres: Psychology, Science, Social Science, Philosophy

264 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1995

Reviews

[Scott]

Did a lot to prepare me for understanding the philosophy of science issues I would encounter in grad school. One of the most influential books I read in my senior year of college.

[Dan-Andes Bekkering-Bauer]

Fantastic book for anyone in the behavioural and social sciences. The basic argument that theorising should be done earlier instead of just learning methods is a very important argument. Well written and thought-provoking book which questions the hidden assumptions of contemporary psychology.

[Katie]

Important ideas.

[Michael Atkinson]

A gem. A scholarly examination of assumptions in the social sciences; great critical thinking reading.

[Tiare]

Read this for a class, it was difficult for me to understand, but by the end of the semester I think I got it down.