Experiments With People: Revelations From Social Psychology - Softcover

Abelson, Robert P.

3.65

78 ratings by Goodreads

9780805828979: Experiments With People: Revelations From Social Psychology

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0805828974 ISBN 13: 9780805828979

Publisher: Routledge, 2003

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Experiments With People showcases 28 intriguing studies that have significantly advanced our understanding of human thought and social behavior. These studies, mostly laboratory experiments, shed light on the irrationality of everyday thinking, the cruelty and indifference of 'ordinary' people, the operation of the unconscious mind, and the intimate bond between the self and others. This book tells the inside story of how social psychological research gets done and why it matters.

Each chapter focuses on the details and implications of a single study, but cites related research and real-life examples. All chapters are self-contained, allowing them to be read in any order. Each chapter is divided into:
*Background--provides the rationale for the study;
*What They Did--outlines the design and procedure used;
*What They Found--summarizes the results obtained;
*So What?--articulates the significance of those results;
*Afterthoughts--explores the broader issues raised by the study; and
*Revelation--encapsulates the 'take-home message' of each chapter.

This paperback is ideal as a main or supplementary text for courses in social psychology, introductory psychology, or research design.

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Review:

"A pleasure to read, a delight to recommend."
―Mark Lepper, Ph.D.
Stanford University

"An absorbing account of some of the best research that social psychology has to offer. Highly recommended!"
―Constantine Sedikides, Ph.D.
University of Southampton, UK

Synopsis:

Exploring the subject of social psychology, this volume offers 28 studies that shed light on human social thinking and behaviour. They address topics such as people's unawareness of why they do what they do, the tenacity with which they maintain beliefs despite contrary evidence, and the surprising extent to which they are influenced by groups to which they belong. The results are intended to help the reader understand otherwise puzzling social phenomena, such as mass suicide by cult members, the operation of unconscious prejudice, and the cruelty and indifference of "ordinary" people. The book provides a convincing case for using the experimental method in social psychological research. Each chapter offers a detailed exposition of, and commentary on, a single study. This approach allows the authors to cite other closely related research. Each study selected raises questions of theoretical significance or addresses a problem of practical importance. The book's introduction provides a brief overview of social psychology, including its history, scope, and goals. It also reviews the critical role the experimental method plays in answering many significant psychological questions.

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