Dr Wolpe designs an experimental test of his theory of aggression against a competing theory. After conducting the appropriate statistical tests, he finds that the data are better explained by the competing theory. His willingness to accept the evidence that another theory is superior is a characteristic of
A)dogmatism.
B)gullibility.
C)pathological scepticism.
D)scientific scepticism.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dr. Wolpe's willingness to accept the evidence that another theory is superior demonstrates scientific skepticism, which is characterized by the practice of continually questioning and re-examining claims and evidence, and being open to changing one's beliefs based on new information. This stands in contrast to dogmatism, which would involve stubbornly adhering to one's own theory even in the face of contradictory evidence, and gullibility, which would involve accepting claims without sufficient evidence. Pathological skepticism, on the other hand, would involve excessive doubt or disbelief even when there is ample evidence to support a claim.

Dr Wolpe Designs an Experimental Test of His Theory of Aggression