The answers that come from using a scientific approach are superior in reliability over using conclusions that come from using intuition and common sense. The objective is to examine the methods behind a scientific approach. As well as, the limits that arise when solely using an intuition based “phenomenon” approach. Both approaches may have their place in psychological science. However, it is shown that the methods behind a science approach provide more depth in experimental research and reliable data then intuition and common sense can provide. Therefore, a scientific approach provides realistic and reliable answers.
Exploring the impact a scientific approach has on establishing answers in psychology based research involves starting with the process of analysis. Scientists and researchers start with a question. Naturally curious, a question could be formed from an intuition based idea. But rather then using intuition as a way to establish findings, a good researcher will use a scientific approach to further test and examine this intuition based idea. Establishing grounded factual data from intuition alone poses for unreliable findings. As said by Madeleine L’Engle, “The naked intellect is an extraordinarily inaccurate instrument” (L’Engle, 1973) Over confidence, hindsight bias, and the tendency to perceive patterns in random events lead us to “overestimate our intuition” (Myers, 2016).
In addition, intuition is simply not backed behind any statistics, data, or proof. Where as, the scientific method uses a process that evaluates and explains a theory. “A good theory produces testable predictions” (Myers, 2016). Which leads us to a testable prediction being formed and a replication of original observations is put to the test. This is a key component to what makes the answers that come from a scientific approach superior to just intuition. Replication of a theory allows an experiment to be done again with the same or greater results, regardless of the subjects being used. This allows for a theory to be confirmed.
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From here, disposal of the idea or pursuit of further research is determined. Case studies, naturalistic observation, and surveys all have their place in psychological science when using a scientific approach in studies. This helps better put things together, determine correlations and make connections to findings. Something we simply cannot do when pursuing findings based on intuition and hear-say. At the same time, correlations made using a scientific approach do not prove a cause. “Correlation does not prove causation. Correlation indicates the possibility of a cause-effect relationship but does not prove such”(Myers,2016)
So the final element of a scientific approach that truly makes it of higher reliability and of higher quality over intuition is how we isolate the cause and effect using experiments. Experiments we cannot conduct with a non scientific approach as there is zero conscious reasoning behind intuition. Experiments allow for random groups to be created to examine and isolate causes and different effects. To isolate the effects in experiments, a control group and an experimental group is formed. All while manipulating the factors and keeping all other variables controlled. Utilizing double blind study methods and placebo groups prevent confused results. Measure and compare, and conclusive results are determined.
Scientific method by definition, “principles and procedures for the systematic pursuit of knowledge involving the recognition and formulation of a problem, the collection of data through observation and experiment, and the formulation and testing of hypothese”(Webster, 1672) A scientific approach employs analyzing observation and precise experimentation before deciding. And intuition employs no observations or experimentation before deciding. Intuition is produced from pre conceived thoughts, behaviors and over-confidence in ideas not formed rationally. As written by Daniel Goleman, “Our two minds.. one is an act of the emotional mind, the other of the rational mind. In a very real sense we have two minds, one that thinks and one that feels” (Goleman, 1996). Its important to note that intuition certainly has its place in forming ideas in psychological science. However, scientific approach holds much more value and reliability through its unbiased procedures for collecting factual data and experiments.
References
- Myers, D. G., & DeWall, C. N. (2016). Exploring psychology in modules. New York, NY: Worth.
- WWWebster dictionary: WWW dictionary. (1999). Place of publication not identified: Merriam-Webster.
- LEngle, M. (1973). A Wind In the Door. New York: Bantam Books.
- Goleman,D.(1996) Bloomsbury Publishing, London, Page 8.
