Development of the Explanation Concept in Psychology
In the article it is noted that the problem of explanation is of extreme importance for modern psychology. The disproportion of the value of the explanation problem is noted in psychology and the number of researches directed to solve this problem. The value of explanation is recognized practically by everybody, nevertheless outdated views on the explanation problem are duplicated, that interferes expansion of the scientific research and further advance in development of the explanation theory. It is claimed that it is necessary to reveal the stereotypes preventing creation of the modern concept of explanation. It is shown that the unsatisfactory solution of these questions is connected with limited understanding of the explanation: it is treated only as cause to effect, other types in methodological constructions are not practically used; in the explanation theory the construct of consciousness is used which is considered separately from a construct of behavior; the isomorphism of conscious and physiological processes is postulated in a wrong way. The task of the present article consists in planning the main development stages of the modern concept of explanation in psychology. Thoughts are formulated, which need to be observed in order that development of the modern concept of explanation in the psychology corresponding to problems of today would be possible. Firstly, it is necessary to include explanation in wider context where other methodological concepts are presented (for example, in the scheme of the structure of a psychological research). Secondly, recognition of plurality of explanation types is necessary, it is necessary to refuse monopoly of a causal explanation. Thirdly, the new concept of explanation will demand a new interpretation of the psychology subject (the model used by J. Piaget seems to be unsatisfactory). Fourthly, the refusal from the concept of psychophysical overlapping is necessary as the cornerstone provision on isomorphism of physiological and psychological structures is not proved in any way. It should be noticed that in fact Piaget speaks about isomorphism of logic and physiology (we already paid attention to this substitution). Fifthly, it is necessary to transfer the explanation into the structure of the subject. Use of the concept of the psychology cumulative subject allows carrying out the requirement, formulated once by E. Spranger, according to whom mental should be explained by means of «psychologica - psychological».