A History of “Relevance” in Psychology

This insightful book examines the historical significance of 'relevance' in psychology, detailing its evolution and implications for the discipline's future.

This book represents a significant exploration into the historical and theoretical dimensions of the concept of 'relevance' in psychology. It posits that the ongoing inquiries regarding the relevance of psychology stem from the discipline's persistent struggle to clearly define its subject matter. The reliance on a socially detached scientific framework to support its knowledge claims has contributed to a disconnect with the evolving needs of society, raising questions about the discipline's effectiveness in addressing contemporary issues.

The chapters delve into the 'relevance' discourse within South African psychology, offering a critical analysis of forty-five presidential, keynote, and opening addresses from annual national psychology congresses spanning from 1950 to 2011. This examination reveals that calls for 'relevance' have been voiced by a diverse range of psychologists, including reactionary, progressive, and radical figures, highlighting a spectrum of perspectives within the field.

Furthermore, the book presents a thought-provoking thesis that the revolutionary pursuit of 'social relevance' which emerged in the 1960s has been overshadowed by a growing emphasis on 'market relevance.' This shift poses a risk of further alienating the discipline from the pressing concerns of society. The author argues that only psychologists who are committed to ethical practice can challenge this trend and reconnect the field with the broader societal context it seeks to serve.