Reductionism And Holism Flashcards
What is reductionism?
The idea that behaviour can be studied by breaking down its parts. That we can explain behaviour using the most basic principles.
What is holism?
The idea that we can only understand behaviour by considering the person as a whole.
What is insight learning?
When behaviour is learned through insight rather than trial and error. The “aha experience”. When all parts of the problem are seen in relation to each other and it forms a meaningful whole.
What study is supports the holistic view?
Kohler (1925)
What was the procedure of Kohler’s (1925) study?
A banana and stick placed outside a chimpanzee’s cage. The stick was in reach but the banana wasn’t.
What were the findings of Kohler’s (1925) study?
Initially the chimp tried to reach the banana but couldn’t. The chimp stopped after a short while, reached for the stick and used it to pull in the banana.
Which approach supports the holistic view?
Humanistic
Why does the humanistic approach support the holistic view?
Study of the whole person
There is no point studying small aspects of humans and ignoring the bigger picture
What are levels of explanation?
The idea that we can explain the same behaviour in multiple different ways at different levels
Which is the bottom and most reductionist level?
Physiological level
Which is the 2nd level up?
Physical level
Which is the 3rd level up?
Psychological level
Which is the highest level?
Sociocultural level
What is the physiological level?
Influence of neurochemistry, genes and brain structure
What is the physical level?
Influence of physical movements
