HCCK03141U COG Empirical Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience and Communication

The aim of the module is to introduce terminology and methods in contemporary experimental psychology from the perspective of philosophy of science. During the course, we will discuss what makes a psychological theory a scientific theory (the demarcation problem), how researchers choose between competing theories (falsification and confirmation theory), and the nature and use of causal-mechanical models in experimental psychology (causal explanation). To this end, the module will introduce the student to experimental key terms (e.g. independent vs. dependent variables, controlled variables, confounding), methodologies (e.g. various ways of measuring response accuracy, response time, and various physiological effects), and paradigmatic theories in contemporary psychology (e.g. theories of mental imagery and spatial attention). In particular, we will be looking into the nature and use of fMRI imaging data. How are such images actually produced? Are they like photographs? How do cognitive psychologists and neuroscientists use imaging data to choose between theories? Can we use the images to read people’s minds? The course can be followed by anyone with an interest in understanding science and in particular scientific psychology. No background in psychology is required. The readings will be a mix of philosophy of science, research papers in cognitive psychology, review papers, and textbook chapters (cognitive psychology). Two mandatory textbooks are used: Peter Godfrey-Smith, Theory and Reality: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science (The University of Chicago Press, 2003) and John R. Anderson, Cognitive Psychology and its Implications (Worth Publishers, latest edition).