2.2: Free will and determinism

Question 1

A researcher studied the effect of light intensity on visual memory. He carried out a controlled experiment. Participants in Group 1 viewed a drawing in extra bright light for 60 seconds then had to recall the details. Participants in Group 2 viewed the same drawing in normal light for 60 seconds then had to recall the details. The researcher recorded the number of details correctly recalled in the two conditions.

Referring to the item above, explain what is meant by the scientific emphasis on causal explanations (3 marks)

Answer 1

The scientific emphasis on causal explanations is:

1. That all variables are controlled except for light conditions (the IV)
2. The use of control enables the researcher to infer causality
3. Any change in the number of details correctly recalled (the DV) must therefore be due to or caused by the manipulation of light intensity (the IV)