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Single Idea 24468

[catalogued under 18. Thought / B. Mechanics of Thought / 1. Psychology]

Full Idea

If the mind is seen as radically free and not subject to the laws of physical causation, it is not seen as amenable to scientific study. A different 'interpretive' method is supposedly required for the human sciences.

Gist of Idea

If the mind is radically free it is beyond both causal laws and scientific study

Source

G Lakoff / M Johnson (Philosophy in the Flesh [1999], 25 'Traditonal')

A Reaction

I think this division started with Dilthey. Modern psychology has encountered a crisis, of inability to replicate earlier experiments. So while neuroscience can be scientific, psychology seems less promising. Personally I value introspection.

Book Reference

Lakoff,G/Johnson,M: 'Philosophy in the Flesh' [Basic Books 1999], p.554

Related Idea

Idea 5436 Natural science seeks explanation; human sciences seek understanding [Dilthey, by Mautner]