History of Unorthodox Psychology (U04031)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 10 ? Acronym : PPL-4-PPH

This course explores the history of unorthodox psychological knowledge. Phrenology, Mesmerism, Spiritualism, Psychical Research and Parapsychology (sometimes called ?Psychology?s occult doubles?) have been controversial areas in the history of Psychology. But why were they so controversial, and what were the controversies really about? We will consider key historical and conceptual issues in Psychology by examining the disputes over scientific status, the various attempts by both sides to convince the scientific community and the public, and the role of the mesmerists, mediums and mindreaders who demonstrated extraordinary psychological abilities.

? Keywords : History of Psychology; Historical and Conceptual Issues in Psychology; Parapsychology

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : Normally Psychology 3 methodology or equivalent

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Psychology, (School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, Schedule I)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 4th year

? Delivery Period : Block 3 only

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 5 weeks

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
19/01/2009	14:00	15:50	Room S.1, 7 George Square	Central

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Monday	14:00	15:50	Central

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: the historical development of (orthodox and unorthodox) psychology; the problem of demarcation in science and the concept of boundary-work; the role of social processes in the construction of psychological and scientific knowledge; the contribution of history to our understanding of psychology.