“Der Weisheits letzter Schluss”? Wisdom’s Last Conclusion?

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.

Shifting Loyalties: Reconsidering Psychology’s Subject Matter

“…Before reading this as a call for more standardization, rigorous methods, or replication, it should be noted that the first and foremost tenet of science for Freeman is 'fidelity to the phenomena'. For the most part, psychologists have shown more loyalty and fidelity to their respective isms or schools of thought as part of the identity process (Watzalwik 2009), social positioning (Valsiner 2004), and methods. So then, what does Freeman mean by 'fidelity to the phenomena'?…”