Facts, Fallacies and Frauds in Psychology

Are the effects of hypnosis real or imagined? Is intelligence determined by nature or nurture? Will ordinary people perform acts of cruelty if ordered to do so by authority figures? Are anorexia and bulimia nervosa forms of depression? Why do some groups outscore others on IQ tests? Is there any real evidence of ESP? These are some of the questions that continued to generate fierce arguments among psychologists and excite considerable general interest in the 1980s and beyond. But where does the truth lie? Originally published in 1987, Facts, Fallacies and Frauds in Psychology looks closely at these six popular and controversial issues. In each case the central ideas are explained and research findings presented in such a way that readers can begin their own voyage of scientific discovery, develop a clearer, deeper understanding - and find out how psychologists really think. Reputations are assessed: fraud is unflinchingly exposed. This entertaining and provocative book will still fascinate the general reader and provide an excellent introduction for students of psychology. This book is a re-issue originally published in 1987. The language used is a reflection of its era and no offence is meant by the Publishers to any reader by this re-publication.

Andrew M. Colman

Preface. 1. Introduction 2. Intelligence and IQ: Nature or Nurture? 3. Intelligence and Race: Are Black People Genetically Inferior? 4. Obedience and Cruelty: Are Most People Potential Killers? 5. Hypnosis: Are Hypnotic Effects Genuine? 6. Eating Disorders: Are Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa Forms of Depression? 7. Extra-Sensory Perception: Is There Any Solid Evidence? References. Index