Social Psychology (9th Edition)
Social Psychology (9th Edition)
9th Edition
ISBN: 9780133936544
Author: Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Publisher: PEARSON
Question
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Chapter 2, Problem 1RQ1
Summary Introduction

Introduction

The best response here is option (C) many social problems can be studied scientifically.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Correct answer and explanation

Social psychology involves the scientific study of social problems. Researchers are able to empirically investigate most social problems by developing appropriate hypotheses and theories. While some research is formulated based on previous theories and past research, other forms of research focus on examining hypotheses based on their observations.

Explanations for incorrect options

Option (A), social problems have complex causes and we will never know why they occur, refers to an incorrect response since while social psychologists recognize the complexity of social problems, they are nonetheless able to scientifically investigate social problems. So, option (A) is incorrect.

Option (B), it is hard to study what effect looking at pornography has on people, because everyone is different, refers to an incorrect response since personality psychologists, and not social psychologists are concerned with how individual differences can be exhibited in behavior. So, option (B) is incorrect.

Option (D), many people fail to help others in emergencies because they don't care about other people, refers to an incorrect response since not caring about others is an irrelevant factor when it comes to scientifically investigating social problems. So, option (D) is incorrect.

Therefore, the options (A), (B), and (D) are incorrect.

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