Integrating Science and Practice: Adopting the Pasteurian Model

Abstract

The field of psychology has a long history of attempting to make its basic science relevant to the analysis and solution of social problems. Some psychologists claim that it has been successful at this goal, but others are not convinced. Historically, the field has followed a linear model in its attempts at being relevant: Basic science is somehow developed first, and later someone comes along to apply it to solve problems in real-world settings. This model is now undergoing serious reconsideration in the physical and biological sciences. An alternative model in which science and practice develop seamlessly is represented in the remarkable career of Louis Pasteur. This article discusses both of these models in the context of psychological science and practice. Three fundamental principles underlying Pasteur's way of doing science and practice are presented. Adopting a Pasteurian framework should help resolve at least some of the debates about our science and practice linkage, but this will require a change in how professionals function and how future generations of professionals are trained. Suggestions are presented for making psychology more Pasteurian to help it achieve its stated goal “as a science, as a profession, and as a means of promoting human welfare.”