1. Operationism & Essentialism

2. Essentialism
Essentialism = good scientific theories give ultimate explanations of essential properties
Unless a theory provides the ultimate explanation of something it is useless

3. Operationism
Operationism = concepts in scientific theories must be grounded in observable events that can be measured
Operational definition = linking a concept to an observable event
Not based on personal judgment
Scientists are NOT Essentialists – they are operationists

4. Operationism Operational definitions employ multiple concepts
Require specificity
These concepts may need operational definitions themselves

5. Indirect Operational Definitions
Anxiety
Worry
Headache
Concentration
Tension
Unrealistic view of
problems
Restlessness
‘Edgy’ or irritable
Persistent pain for most of the day, nearly every day for at least two weeks
Muscle tension in neck
CPT performance
Brenner Distraction
Questionnaire
30 min TV show

6. Evolution of Science As new information is learned, definitions change
Ex. Anxiety & Intelligence
This evolution is a result of scientific activity rather than language debate
Definition of concept is best formulated after something is known about it

7. Pre-existing Bias Problem
People don’t come into the field of climatology with emotional attachments to the concepts of cloud formation
We all have intuitive definitions of psychological concepts
Annoyance Depression
Love Competitiveness
Alcoholism Excitability

8. Essentialist ?s & the Misunderstanding of Psychology
There is an unrealistic expectation of psychologists to provide essentialist answers to ultimate questions
Psychologist’s unwillingness to attempt to provide these answers is often frowned upon
Other sciences do not have this same expectation