Die sielkunde as kwantitatiewe rasionele wetenskap
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posted on 2024-11-18, 15:52authored byInaugural addresses
Inaugural lecture--Department of Psychology, Rand Afrikaans University, 26 August 1976@@The present structure of psychology was critically analysed. It was pointed out that most of the constructs used, are operationally defined, but that the interrelationships among the constructs are only known on a correlational level. A tendency on the part of psychologists to make use of theoretical constructs without ever establishing the empirical validity thereof, was pointed out. Psychologists were called upon to critically examine the current status of the constructs used by them, and to validate these with reference to well planned empirical studies. Consensus
of opinion should be reached as to the real value of their constructs. It was pointed out that progress in psychology was closely related to the ability to measure adequately. The value of subjective judgement in psychology was strongly emphasized, and it was pointed out that the essence of the scientific approach was not objectivity, but replicability. As far as the further development of the Department of Psychology at the Rand Afrikaans University is concerned, it was pointed out that both an understanding approach, and a quantitative approach would be followed. A general academic training would be followed up to the honours level. At the post-graduate level the training of researchers and academics was seen as the first priority, and next to this the training of professional psychologists. As far as the training of practitioners is concerned, we shall try to meet all the requirements set by the S.A. Medical and Dental Council.