The scientist who mistook his object for a method, or

can we make a non-classical psychology?

Arno L. Goudsmit

pp. 185-192

in: Michael E. Hyland, William J. Baker, René van Hezewijk, Terwee (eds), Recent trends in theoretical psychology, Berlin, Springer, 1990

Abstract

Two research traditions in psychology, called the "outside tradition" and the "inside tradition", are compared in respect of their weak sides. These weaknesses can be seen to converge precisely toward one central issue that usually evades attention: the difficulties a researcher may have to distinguish object and method of investigation. By including these difficulties as a substantial topic of study, a non-classical psychology is considered possible. It is claimed that an empirically founded theory of psychotherapeutic practice, that intends to be more than a conglomeration of facts and feelings, must be non-classical.