This introductory social psychology textbook acknowledges two very different approaches being taken to social psychology - experimental and critical. These approaches are in conflict with each other. The book brings these together in a single, coherent text. No attempt is made to find a cosy integration between them; rather, students explore the benefits and drawbacks of each. This book makes students develop their skills of critical analysis by addressing questions like: What is social psychology - A natural science? A ...
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This introductory social psychology textbook acknowledges two very different approaches being taken to social psychology - experimental and critical. These approaches are in conflict with each other. The book brings these together in a single, coherent text. No attempt is made to find a cosy integration between them; rather, students explore the benefits and drawbacks of each. This book makes students develop their skills of critical analysis by addressing questions like: What is social psychology - A natural science? A social science? A human science? Or something else entirely?; How should social psychology be studied - By doing experiments? Or by analysing discourse?; What is the social in social psychology? Is it how people's thoughts and behaviour are influenced by social forces and circumstances? Or is it how social identities and social worlds get constructed?; Is social psychology neutral and above politics, or is it racist and elitist? Does it need to change? How?; What role can social psychologists play in making the world a better place? Can they? Should they?
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