Q&A: Psychology Studies
Psychology Studies
Question
Hello Michael,
I read a lot on the site here and in your books, and I enjoy very much the depth and exceptional systematicity. It is definitely rare.
Recently I enrolled in psychology studies (out of a desire to do something meaningful in the world, and out of a natural tendency to be an address for conversationwith the people around me).
It is important for me to understand how our psyche works and to be able to map out the system of pressures that operates on a person in his life.
I know that you are skeptical about this field as a discipline. I also read a bit of your writings that explain the reason for that, and I. feel that it reallytook away some of my desire to study the field. Suddenly all the motivation and sense of mission almost evaporated as if they had never been. How can I invest somany resources in studying the science of nonsense?
On the other hand, I do want to become skilled and be a therapist. I want to know about the psyche in a professional way and to be someone who really helps peoplewith life’s distresses.
What do you suggest? (Give up on the studies? Study with a critical mindset? Is it a shame to waste the time?)
Answer
I explained my view here in the past. I’m doubtful how much practical value there is in the disciplinary knowledge, but experience and a personal approach probably do help people from time to time, and it is possible—and even likely—that the knowledge also has some added value. In addition, without the studies you won’t be able to do this anyway.
The phrase “the science of nonsense” refers to the scientific value of various fields (there is a column about psychology). That doesn’t mean that such studies have no value.
So I suggest you do what your heart desires, regardless of my theoretical opinion and my views.
Of course, being critical is always good and worthwhile.