Early Behaviorists Argued That Because Thinking Cannot Be Observed, It

question 14

Multiple Choice

Early behaviorists argued that because thinking cannot be observed, it cannot be studied objectively and scientifically. How would a cognitive psychologist be most likely to respond to this argument?

• A) "Modern technology allows us to study thought processes very precisely."
• B) "By studying people's responses to various stimuli, we can draw inferences about thought processes that may underlie those responses."
• C) "We study mental events, which aren't the same thing as thinking."
• D) "We can determine what people are thinking simply by asking them to describe their thoughts. The things they say are observable behaviors that we can measure objectively."

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Definitions:

Explicit Memory

Refers to the conscious, intentional recollection of factual information, previous experiences, and concepts.

Semantic Memory

This term refers to a type of long-term memory involving the capacity to recall words, concepts, or numbers, which is essential for the use and understanding of language.

Sensory Memory

The shortest-term element of memory, it acts as a buffer for stimuli received through the senses and lasts for a very short time.

Stroop Effect

A cognitive phenomenon that demonstrates the interference in reaction time when the name of a color is printed in a color not denoted by the name.