In recent decades, the public's appetite for pseudoscience has grown. Describe two examples of this "pop psychology" and then analyze the differences between psychology and pseudoscience
What will be an ideal response?
A good answer will include the following key points. Specific examples may vary.
• Possible Example 1: Many self-help books are available in bookstores that purport to help you find personal growth and success in life.
• Possible Example 2: Playing on the modern consumer's love of technology, a variety of electrical gizmos have been marketed with the promise that they will get both halves of your brain working at their peak.
• Pseudoscience is based on popular opinion and promises easy fixes to life's problems.
• Scientific psychology is based on empirical evidence.
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Conversion to a cult often includes all of the following EXCEPT
a. intense displays of affection and understanding toward the convert. b. isolation of the convert from noncult members. c. drills, disciplines, and rituals. d. having the convert reflect on his or her own ideas and beliefs.
When Thorndike studied cats escaping from puzzle boxes, what result would have suggested to him that the cats gained an understanding of how to open the box?
a. If the cats' speed of escaping had increased more gradually than it did b. If the cats' speed of escaping had increased suddenly at some point c. If the cats had been able to learn without reinforcement d. If the cats had shown a facial expression whenever they escaped