Understanding Psychology (10th Ed)

 Module 
3 
Psychology’s Key Issues and Controversies 
27
“Expand Your Mind beyond Virtual Reality . . . & Learn at the 
Speed of Light!” declares the sales pitch that arrives in the day’s 
spam. “I have an astounding technology I’m going to share 
with you. Something so profound it will . . . transform your 
mind and soul forever.” 
From advertisements to television and radio talk shows to 
the Internet, we are subjected to a barrage of information about 
psychology. We are told that we can become better adjusted, 
smarter, more insightful, and happier individuals by learning 
the secrets that psychologists have revealed. 
However, such promises are usually empty. So how can we separate accurate 
information, which is backed by science and objective research, from pseudo-
psychology based on anecdotes, opinions, and even outright fraud? The best approach 
is to employ critical thinking techniques. Developed by psychologists who specialize 
in learning, memory, cognition, intelligence, and education, critical thinking 
procedures provide the tools to scrutinize assumptions, evaluate assertions, and think 
with greater precision (Halpern & Riggio, 2002; Lilienfeld, Lynn, & Lohr, 2003; 
Roediger & McCabe, 2007). 
We’ll be considering ways to boost critical thinking skills in Becoming an Informed 
Consumer of Psychology sections throughout the book. To get started, let’s consider what 
you need in order to evaluate information of a psychological nature, whether the 
source is an advertisement, a television show, a magazine article, or even a book as 
seemingly reliable as a college textbook.
• For starters, know who is offering the information and advice. Are the providers 
of the information trained psychologists? What kinds of degrees do they have? 
Are they licensed? Are they affi liated with a particular institution? Before 
seriously relying on experts’ advice, check out their credentials.
• Keep in mind that there is no free ride. If it is possible to solve major psychologi-
cal ills by buying a $29.95 book, why do many people who suffer from such 
problems typically expend a considerable amount of time and money before they 
can be helped? If you could buy a computer program that would really “unlock 
the hidden truths” about others, wouldn’t it be in widespread use? Be wary of 
simple, glib responses to major diffi culties.
• Be aware that few universal cures exist for humankind’s ills. No method or 
technique works for everyone. The range of diffi culties attached to the human 
condition is so broad that any procedure that purports to resolve all problems is 
certain to disappoint.
• Finally, remember that no source of information or advice is defi nitive. The 
notion of infallibility is best left to the realm of religion; you should approach 
psychological information and advice from a critical and thoughtful perspective.