On the relevance of philosophy for psychological research: A preliminary analysis of some influences of andersonian realism

Abstract

Abstract The emancipation of psychology from philosophy was appropriate, because issues in psychological research are not reducible to philosophical ones. However, the view held by many modern psychologists—that philosophy is irrelevant for psychological research—is also false, although it is true that many of the issues pursued by philosophical psychologists are unrelated to those which interest research psychologists. Philosophical considerations can significantly affect psychology. The influence of realism, as put forward by the Sydney philosopher, John Anderson, is a case in point. This paper offers a preliminary analysis of Andersonian influences on psychology. I first discuss the context of Anderson's philosophy and its relevance to contemporary psychological issues, and then offer an appraisal of the work of J. R. Maze, a theoretical psychologist who arguably is the most thoroughgoing contemporary exponent of Andersonian realism, and who has recently presented a systematic exposition of his views i...