Holism Vs Reductionism

Question 1

Reductionism

Answer 1

• we REDUCE behaviour down to one singular cause
• Parsimony: all behaviour should be explained using the most basic principles
• takes into account the major systems e.g. biological, behaviourist

Question 2

Holism

Answer 2

• takes into account all of the elements rather than just focusing on one
• Gestalt psychology: “the whole is greater than the sum of it’s parts”
• considers the whole person’s experience

Question 3

Types of reductionism

Answer 3

• Biological: lower biological level e.g. genetics and hormones
• Environmental: stimulus and response
• Machine: brain is like a computer (input-output process)

Question 4

Levels of explanation

Answer 4

4 (holism) ——— 1(reductionist)
4. Socio-cultural level
3. Psychological level (cognitive)
2. Psychological level
1. Biological level

Question 5

Reductionism: :) Scientific

Answer 5

We can establish the cause of behaviour more easily

Question 6

Reductionism: :) Recognises biological importance

Answer 6

Provides sufficient evidence for the influence of biology on behaviour

Question 7

Reductionism: :( Over-simplifies behaviour

Answer 7

Other factors aren’t considered
- third-variable problem

Question 8

Reductionism: :( Little attempt to combine theories together

Answer 8

Behaviour is likely the result of many different factors, therefore may not reflect real-life behaviour

Question 9

Holism: :) Reminds us the whole is not the sum of it’s parts

Answer 9

Understands a combination of parts reflects behaviour

Question 10

Holism: :) More complete understanding of behaviour

Answer 10

More reflective of human behaviour and experiences

Question 11

Holism: :( Cannot be rigorously tested

Answer 11

Therefore provides unscientific, unreliable evidence

Question 12

Holism: :( Vague contributions

Answer 12

We do not understand how far each factor contributes