Understanding Psychology as a Science: An Introduction to Scientific and Statistical Inference - Paperback

by Zoltan Dienes (Author)

An accessible and illuminating exploration of the conceptual basisof scientific and statistical inference and the practical impact this has on conducting psychological research. The book encourages a critical discussion of the different approaches and looks at some of the most important thinkers and their influence.

Back Jacket

What makes psychology a science?

What is the logic underlying psychological research?

In this groundbreaking book Zoltán Dienes introduces students to key issues in the philosophy of science and statistics that have a direct and vital bearing on the practice of research in psychology. The book is organised around the influential thinkers and conceptual debates which pervade psychological research and teaching but until now have not been made accessible to students. In a clear and fluid style, Dienes takes the reader on a compelling tour of the ideas of:

- Popper
- Kuhn& Lakatos
- Neyman& Pearson
- Bayes
- Fisher& Royall

Featuring examples drawn from extensive teaching experience to ground the ideas firmly in psychological science, the book is an ideal companion to courses and modules in psychological research methods and also to those covering conceptual and historical issues.

Author Biography

ZOLTAN DIENES is a Reader in Experimental Psychology at the University of Sussex, where he has lectured since 1990. His main research area is learning and he has written 65 publications. He teaches a core course on philosophy of psychology to all final year psychology undergraduates.
ZOLTAN DIENES is a Reader in Experimental Psychology at the University of Sussex, where he has lectured since 1990. His main research area is learning and he has written 65 publications. He teaches a core course on philosophy of psychology to all final year psychology undergraduates.