Lecture 1: History of Philosophical Underpinnings of Psychology

Introduction

• Understanding different historical eras of psychology is crucial to contextualizing the field.
• Psychology as a science has evolved in response to religious doctrines and other societal constructs.
• Science aims to prove truth through replication and does not rely on dogma or unchallenged beliefs.

Science and Philosophy

• Science is rooted in human curiosity and seeks universal laws.
• Philosophy, such as Socratic questioning, highlights the lack of universal truths and emphasizes wisdom.
• Psychology combines scientific inquiry, philosophy, humanities, and art.

Dual Tracks in Psychology

• Science-focused Psychology: Emphasizes quantifiable insights and research.
• Therapeutic-focused Psychology: Values individual experiences and humanistic approaches.
• Students are encouraged to reflect on where they fall on this spectrum and challenge their beliefs.

Active Listening and Communication

• Active listening is key to understanding and engaging in effective communication.
• It involves responding to understand rather than just to reply.
• The skill can be taught and practiced to improve interpersonal relationships.

Course Requirements and Assignments

• Video project (group work required for in-person classes).
• "Psych in Your World" writing assignment.
• Active listening assignment: Practice genuine listening in conversations.
• Attendance and participation through quizzes or additional activities.

Active Listening as Transformative

• The practice of active listening can change personal interactions and societal communication.
• Encourages curiosity and empathy in conversations.
• Assignments aim to build a community and strengthen listening skills.

Historical Context and Scientific Method

• Overview of the scientific method and its application in psychology.
• Important to develop hypotheses and test them through experiments.
• Science compiles evidence rather than proving absolute truths.

Subdisciplines of Psychology

• Biological, Personality, Developmental, Cognitive, Social, Clinical
• Each subdiscipline contributes unique perspectives and methodologies.

Structuralism and Functionalism

• Structuralism: Breaks consciousness into smaller parts through introspection.
• Functionalism: Focuses on the purpose of mental processes and how they help adapt to the environment.

Gestalt Psychology

• Contrasts with structuralism by emphasizing whole experiences over parts.
• Our brains are adept at finding patterns and filling in gaps.

Psychoanalysis

• Freud's theory emphasizes the unconscious mind and its influence on behavior.
• Includes concepts like the ID, Ego, and Super-Ego.
• Techniques like dream analysis and free association aim to access the unconscious.

Behaviorism and Cognitive Approaches

• Behaviorism: Focuses on observable behaviors influenced by environmental stimuli.
• Cognitive Approach: Studies internal processes like thoughts and mental activities.

Evolutionary and Cultural Psychology

• Evolutionary Psychology: Examines behaviors as adaptations for survival.
• Cultural Psychology: Studies the impact of culture and social environment on behavior and mental processes.

Conclusion

• Psychology is a dynamic field that integrates scientific, philosophical, and humanistic methods to understand human behavior and mental processes.
• The course will cover various psychological theories and methodologies, encouraging active participation and critical thinking.