ISSN 1671-3710
CN 11-4766/R
主办:中国科学院心理研究所
出版:科学出版社

›› 2004, Vol. 12 ›› Issue (2): 312-319.

Previous Articles    

Social Constructionist Psychology: ‘Anti-realism’ or ‘Realism’?

Yang Liping   

  1. School of Education Science, Nanjing Normal University,210097
  • Received:2003-06-30 Revised:1900-01-01 Online:2004-03-15 Published:2004-03-15
  • Contact: Yang Liping

Abstract: Now ‘anti-realism and realism’ debate has been the core of contentions about social constructionism Psychology. The opponents condemned social constructionism for its anti-realism, and in the meantime many social constructionists tried to clarify their realist position. We insist that : (1) In respect that social constructionism is an inconstant system, none of the straightforward judgment can abstain from arbitrary decision, and they will only prevent us from appreciating social constructionism ultimately. (2) To realize social constructionism, we need a profound understanding of ‘reality’. Social constructionism treat ‘reality’ as ‘the reality in our beliefs’ or ‘the reality in representation’. This identification may help us to keep away from the simplification in critique. (3) As a realist, knowing the limitation of realism will make us reflect on and participate in the debate more rationally.

Key words: social constructionism, anti-realism, realism.

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