The Dark Side of Psychology
Introduction
This module explores the dark and hidden history of psychology which is often neglected in conventional textbooks. An investigation of the history of psychology examines the claim that psychology is a science by exploring the epistemological and methodological development of the discipline. Psychology's claim to be an objective science is critically examined with an exploration of topics such as scientific racism and sexism. Key figures in psychology and related areas such as the eugenics movement will be discussed. Furthermore, this module explores the ways in which psychology has been used to legitimise the oppression of certain groups within society.
The module learning outcomes are:
1) Demonstrate a critical understanding of the historical development of psychological thought;
2) Demonstrate a critical understanding of the epistemological basis of psychological knowledge;
3) Evaluate the role psychology has played in the oppression of different social and cultural groups.
This piece of coursework assesses module learning outcomes 1 and 2
Students will be required to complete a 2000 word essay on any one of the essay titles below.
Question
Critically discuss the historical and conceptual development of intelligence testing in Psychology.
Points to consider
How has Intelligence been defined? Can it be Measured.
The development of the IQ test by Alfred Binet and how it was used in educational settings.
The adoption of the lQ test by the psychologists who were informed by eugenics (e. g. Henry Goddard, Charles Brigham, Cyril Burt etc) and use for categorising idiots and imbeciles - IQ political tool used for immigration and sterilization.
IQ testing and race - ( Jensen, Herrinstein & Murray, 1994 Lynn, 2002)
IQ as a political tool or a measurement of nature or nuture
https://www.dropbox.com/s/s1xrc25nuifwb1o/Lectures%20-%20Psychology.rar?dl=0