On the relevance of philosophy for psychological research: Some autobiographical speculations concerning the influence of Andersonian Realism

Abstract

Abstract Contrary to the view held by many modern psychologists that philosophy is irrelevant for psychological research, philosophical considerations can significantly affect the ways in which psychological thinking is shaped. The influence of realism, as put forward by the Sydney University philosopher John Anderson, illustrates the relevance of philosophy. This paper first provides general, and necessarily subjective, impressions of some educational features of the Sydney Psychology Department during the tenure by W. O'Neil (1945-1965) as Head and only Professor of Psychology. It is suggested that the department stressed the conflict of ideas as essential in the process of enquiry. Some autobiographical examples are then given to illustrate how Andersonian realism significantly affected both the conduct and the evaluation of experimental psychological research. The paper concludes by suggesting that autobiographical reflections can be useful in providing a starting point for a broader and more substant...