Methodological implications of Marxist practical philosophy for psychology: A perspective from China

Abstract

One of the traditional branches of Western practical philosophy, Marxist practical philosophy, is still the mainstream philosophy in contemporary China. It provides not only a new understanding of human nature, mind, behavior, and environment, but also an alternative perspective for the study of psychology. It is from this perspective that activity theory in the former Soviet Union and “practice” discussions in China try to integrate Marxist practical philosophy with psychology. Based on these attempts, we advocate the introduction of “practice” into psychology and the understanding of all psychological problems as starting from “practice.” First, “practice” is defined as people’s creative activity and a way of human existence. The structure of “practice” is then divided into three hierarchies: reflexive practice, cognitive practice, and social and cultural practice. Finally, two examples are chosen to explain how to research psychology from the viewpoint of Marxist practical philosophy.