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David E Melnikoff¹, John A Bargh¹

¹Department of Psychology, Yale University, 2 Hillhouse Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.

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|March 25, 2018

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

The widely accepted dual-process theory in psychology, categorizing mental processes as either conscious or unconscious, is challenged. This influential framework lacks empirical support and hinders scientific advancement in cognitive science.

Keywords:

automaticity dual process dual system type 1 type 2

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Area of Science:

Cognitive Psychology
Philosophy of Mind
Neuroscience

Background:

The dominant dual-process theory posits two distinct types of psychological processes: one intentional, conscious, and inefficient, the other unintentional, unconscious, and efficient.
This influential typology has guided decades of research in cognitive science and related fields.

Purpose of the Study:

To critically evaluate the empirical support for the dual-process typology.
To examine the internal coherence and consistency of the dual-process framework with existing psychological findings.
To argue that the assumption of two distinct types of psychological processes impedes scientific progress.

Main Methods:

Systematic literature review and critical analysis of empirical studies supporting dual-process models.
Conceptual analysis of the theoretical underpinnings and assumptions of the dual-process typology.
Examination of contradictory evidence and alternative theoretical frameworks in cognitive science.

Main Results:

Significant lack of robust empirical evidence supporting the strict dichotomy of psychological processes.
Identification of internal inconsistencies and contradictions with established findings in cognitive psychology.
Demonstration that the dual-process assumption systematically obstructs scientific inquiry and theoretical development.

Conclusions:

The dual-process typology, while influential, is presented as a "seductive myth" lacking sufficient empirical validation.
The field of cognitive science is urged to move beyond this limiting framework to foster more productive research avenues.
Alternative theoretical approaches are needed to better understand the complexities of psychological processes.