Cognitive Psychology: The study of how individuals perceive, learn, remember, and
think about information, focusing on internal mental processes that underlie human
behavior.
Dialectic: A developmental process through which ideas evolve, incorporating:
o Thesis: A proposed belief or starting concept.
o Antithesis: An opposing viewpoint that challenges the thesis.
o Synthesis: The integration of thesis and antithesis, forming a new, advanced
understanding that serves as the next thesis in the cycle.
o Culture: Significantly influences cognitive processes, such as intelligence and
perception.
Assumptions in Cognitive Psychology
The mind operates as an information processing system—often likened to a
computer.
o Capable of processing, storing, and retrieving symbolic information.
o Holds a vast but not limitless memory capacity.
o Operates with components analogous to “software” (mental processes) and
“hardware” (brain structure).
Cognitive psychology uses scientific methods to study internal mental processes
systematically, bypassing reliance on purely subjective or introspective approaches.
PHILOSOPHICAL ANTECEDENTS OF COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY: RATIONALISM VS.
EMPIRICISM
The roots of psychology trace back to two major fields: philosophy and physiology.
1. Rationalism (Plato)
o Knowledge is attained through thinking and logical analysis rather than
sensory observation.
o Reality lies in abstract concepts rather than observable phenomena.
o René Descartes: Advocated that sensory experiences can be misleading
(“Cogito, ergo sum” — "I think, therefore I am").
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through EFT, credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying this summary from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller ochiengglorious5. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy this summary for R48,71. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.