Describe a problem that can arise when you are trying to obtain information using only the method of authority. How is this problem avoided in the scientific method?
What will be an ideal response?
Potential problems with the method of authority are (1) that the expert may not really be an expert or may be providing information outside his or her area of expertise, and (2) that the method does not include any mechanism to verify the information. These problems are corrected in the scientific method because the results are always verified by an empirical demonstration.
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Which of the following is the best definition for the life-span developmental psychology approach?
a) Development occurs over the lifetime and is multidimensional, shaped by many causes. b) Development occurs over the lifetime, primarily from social causes from the peer group. Consider This: This approach looks at development as a plastic process. LO 1.5: Identify adult development as life long and the adult is exposed to multiple environments c) Development occurs over the lifetime, initially shaped by biological causes, then by environmental causes. Consider This: This approach looks at development as a plastic process. LO 1.5: Identify adult development as life long and the adult is exposed to multiple environments d) Development occurs over the lifetime, but in a limited fashion as the majority of development occurs infancy through adolescence. Consider This: This approach looks at development as a plastic process. LO 1.5: Identify adult development as life long and the adult is exposed to multiple environments
Which of the following is a reason why it takes middle-aged adults longer to perform cognitive tasks than younger adults?
A) It is more difficult for the middle-aged brain to activate large areas of the cortex. B) A larger area of brain tissue is activated, so it takes longer to process information. C) Because of decreased blood supply to the brain resulting from the build-up of plaque. D) Because the middle-aged brain does not react to perceptual stimuli as fast as the young adult brain.