Undergraduate SWI-PSY30013-2023
History and Philosophy of Psychology
Break down some of the big theories of psychology and analyse them. Afford yourself a fuller picture of the history of psychological study, and the real-life figures who pioneered it. Ponder the nature of the mind and the philosophy of science.
$3,280 $3,530
Your upfront cost: $0
Duration
13 weeks
Study method
100% Online
Available loans
- HECS-HELP
- FEE-HELP
Assessments
100% online
Prior study
Required
Start dates
- 28 Aug 2023
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QS Ranking 2023
18
Times Higher Education Ranking 2023
22
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Subject details
Students who successfully complete this subject will be able to:
- Describe significant figures, events, and ideas in the history of psychology;
- Interpret the significance of these figures/events/ideas with respect to their context;
- Identify the impact of these figures/events/ideas on evolution of psychology as a discipline;
- Critically evaluate the philosophical, social, and scientific basis for psychological concepts and methods;
- Synthesise arguments concerning psychological opinion, theory, and practice.
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- The nature and limits of psychology
- Philosophical and physiological precursors to psychology
- The emergence of modern scientific psychology
- Big theories and movements in psychology, such as: psychoanalysis/psychodynamic, Gestalt, behaviorist, humanistic, cognitive, cognitive neuroscience
- Philosophy of mind, philosophy of science, and psychology as a science
- Psychological theory and methods
- Philosophical, scientific, social aspects of issues in psychology, e.g., mental illness, therapy, gender, sex, culture, consciousness
You must have successfully completed the following subject(s) before starting this subject:
one of- SWI-PSY20007-Developmental Psychology
- SWI-PSS250 (Not currently available)
- SWI-PSY20006-Cognition and Human Performance
- SWI-PSS240 (Not currently available)
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
This subject provides students with a broad and eclectic view of the history and philosophy of psychology. It surveys a selection of interesting and influential events, people, and ideas and uses these as a focus to critically examine issues that directly and indirectly shape the discipline as it is practiced today.
Please note: assessment values are indicative only, details will be advised at the start of the subject.
- Essay (35%)
- Journal (40%)
- Peer Evaluation (25%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).