Importance of Psychology
One question concerns the importance of psychology. Why is the field of psychology important? There may be at least three reasons why psychology is important.
1. Self-Knowledge
Learning can be viewed as one purpose of life, and self-knowledge can be viewed as an important element of learning. We may not be able to fully understand ourselves simply through self-reflection. We may not be able to fully understand the causes of our own behaviors. We can gain a better understanding of who we are and the causes of our behaviors by learning about psychology findings in scholarly journals. In psychology journals, there are many randomized experiments. Because these randomized experiments allow us to make causal conclusions, we can gain insight into the true causes of our behaviors. Moreover, a personality test may allow one to gain knowledge of one's personality. This knowledge about personality may help to develop personal goals consistent with one's personality.
2. Learning About Others
In addition to learning about oneself, the field of psychology allows us to learn about others. For example, we may gain insight into personality traits that are different from our own personality traits.
It is important to gain an understanding of others to improve social relationships. We may wish to build rapport and communicate more effectively. Also, we may need to know how to be an effective manager or leader.
3. Practical Ideas
Ideas and findings in psychology may help to think of practical ideas and possible solutions to important problems. We may gain insight concerning possible applications of psychology and solutions to certain important problems. (1)
Notes
1. This website has a section on practical ideas.