“The scientist” as role model for “the psychologist”

Abstract

This paper examines the stereotypical notion of “the scientist” which serves as a role model in the socialization of psychologists. It is pointed out that the stereotype is intensely masculine, seems only tenuously to be related to the actual personal characteristics of scientists, and even less so to the characteristics of psychologists. The value constellations of domination, mastery and control of nature, and objectivity or personal detachment are identified as central features of the stereotype and are critically discussed. It is concluded that the uncritical promotion of these values is inconsistent with the requirement, for an adequate conceptualization of psychology, to address firmly the question of values and the role of the knower in the process of knowledge production. The work of Habermas (1971, 1983) and Gadamar (1975, 1979) is suggested as having possible relevance for the construction of a more adequate conceptualization of psychology.