Meaning and Nature of Psychology

The term “psychology” originates from two Greek words: “psyche,” meaning soul, and “logos,” meaning study. Therefore, psychology is the “study of the soul.” Despite this literal interpretation, psychology is recognized as a science rather than mere discourse. The distinction arises because scientific study is systematic and thorough, unlike informal talks which can be vague and inconsistent.

Psychology is both an academic and applied discipline focused on studying human behavior and mental processes. It delves into the subconscious neurological basis of behavior, exploring the mind, thoughts, and actions of individuals. While it often includes an understanding of brain function, psychology also incorporates phenomenological and information processing theories of the mind. It examines consciousness, behavior, and social interactions, and has broad applications, including the treatment of mental illnesses.

Definition of Psychology

Psychology studies the thoughts and actions of individuals. As the youngest of the sciences, it is still evolving, and its definition remains a subject of debate among psychologists. Different definitions have emerged, including the science of the soul, mind, consciousness, and behavior. Let’s examine these definitions to understand what psychology encompasses.

Psychology as a Science of Soul

Historically, psychology was defined as the “science of the soul.” Aristotle referred to the soul as the living principle in all animate beings. Today, the term “soul” carries religious connotations, referring to the immortal part of us with a special relationship with God. Modern psychologists avoid using “soul” due to its religious implications. For psychology to be considered a science, it must adopt a scientific approach. Since the soul cannot be observed or experimented upon, defining psychology as the science of the soul is considered unscientific.

Psychology as the Science of Mind

The term “mind” can be as ambiguous as “soul.” If “mind” refers to something mysterious inside us, it is no better than the concept of the soul. However, if we consider the mind as mental processes, the definition becomes more viable. Mental processes include knowing, feeling, and willing, which are observable and can be experienced. Thus, psychology as the science of mental processes is reasonable but limited, as we can only study our mental processes directly. Understanding others’ mental processes requires observing their behavior, making this definition incomplete.

Psychology as the Science of Consciousness

Consciousness refers to our present awareness. However, this definition is narrow as it excludes subconscious and unconscious mental processes, as well as behavior. Consciousness forms only a small part of our mind, making this definition insufficient for encompassing the full scope of psychology.

Psychology as a Science of Behavior

Behaviorism defines psychology as the science of behavior, focusing on responses, reactions, and adjustments to stimuli. This definition is modern and emphasizes observable behavior, disregarding consciousness and mental processes. While behavior reveals the mind, neglecting mental processes is a significant oversight. Hence, this definition is also considered one-sided.

Psychology and Other Sciences

The universe consists of non-living things, living things without mind (plants), and living things with mind (humans and animals). Correspondingly, there are three categories of sciences:

Physical Sciences

These sciences explain non-living things, describing the properties of matter and physical phenomena in nature.

Biological Sciences

These sciences study life and living things, exploring various forms of life, growth, and development of plants, animals, and humans.

Mental Sciences

Among the sciences dealing with the mind, psychology is fundamental. It studies the essential nature of the mind, its growth, and function in humans and animals, normal and abnormal individuals, and in different societies.

Psychology, the youngest science, formally began in 1879 with Wilhelm Wundt’s psychological laboratory in Leipzig, Germany. It studies behavior and mental processes and has been defined in various ways: the science of soul, mind, consciousness, and behavior. Composed of the Greek words “psyche” and “logos,” psychology means the study of the soul. It is increasingly complex, extending beyond humans to all creatures with life, and has numerous branches and applications across various fields.

Self-Assessment Questions

1. Define psychology.
2. Describe four kinds of psychology.
3. Do you agree that psychology is the science of the soul?
4. Is psychology a science, and if so, how?