Why Science Matters

Understanding the Methods of Psychological Research

Robert W Proctor author E J Capaldi author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Published:16th Dec '05

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

This hardback is available in another edition too:

Why Science Matters cover

Why Science Matters: Understanding the Methods of Psychological Research rises above standard research methods texts by presenting an up-to-date view of contemporary psychological science as it is currently understood and practiced.


  • Explores not only the procedural aspects of psychological research, but also delves into the issue of how to accomplish effective science.

  • Explicates how hypotheses and theories are to be evaluated.

  • Suggests that the proper approach to devising and evaluating theories is by abduction, not by induction or deduction alone.

  • Incorporates new investigatory procedures, current methodologists, conflicts and issues, implications of the philosophy of science, and a lively prose style.

  • Provides a picture of science that will engage students and expand their abilities as both scientists and psychologists.

"This book is an excellent exposition of historical and contemporary issues in the philosophy of science, and is particularly useful for psychologists and other behavioral scientists. Its core ideas will be useful to students, practitioners, and researchers alike."
--Craig A. Anderson, Iowa State University

"This book provides a comprehensive, fascinating, and up-to date account of what underlies the process of science. While there are many books on the nature of science written by philosophers, sociologists, historians and psychologists, this is the first volume that provides a sweeping vista of all these different approaches. Proctor and Capaldi have written a book that is a must-have for anyone who wants to understand the enterprise that we call science."
--Kevin Niall Dunbar, Dartmouth College"This is a sophisticated, important, readable, and timely treatment of both the philosophy of science and the science of psychology. It would be a valuable addition to any advanced seminar on research methods in the behavioral sciences."
--David Klahr, Carnegie Mellon University

ISBN: 9781405133579

Dimensions: 236mm x 158mm x 23mm

Weight: 544g

244 pages