This lesson introduces dual process theory and traces some of its historical roots. It explains why psychologists use the idea of two kinds of thinking and how the familiar System 1 and System 2 labels describe contrasting tendencies.
Dual process theory is a family of accounts proposing that thought and judgment can arise through two broadly different kinds of processes. A common distinction is between an implicit, automatic, often unconscious process and an explicit, controlled, conscious process. These are not necessarily two literal brain organs; they are ways of describing differences in how cognition operates.
All flashcards
What is dual process theory?
It is a family of theories proposing that thought can arise through two broadly different kinds of processes, often described as automatic and controlled.
What is a typical feature of System 1?
System 1 is commonly fast, automatic, associative, and relatively low in deliberate effort.
What is a typical feature of System 2?
System 2 is commonly slower, more sequential and deliberate, and dependent on conscious control and working memory.
What distinguishes the central and peripheral routes in the elaboration likelihood model?
The central route involves careful evaluation of arguments; the peripheral route relies more on cues or shortcuts.
What does fuzzy-trace theory propose about memory?
It proposes separate memory representations for surface details (verbatim) and meaning (gist).
Quiz questions
What broad distinction is central to many dual-process theories?Answer: A distinction between relatively automatic, implicit processing and controlled, explicit processing.
How did William James characterize associative thinking?Answer: It draws on past experiences and brings related images or ideas to mind.
What role did heuristic processes play in Evans's account?Answer: They help select information that seems relevant for further processing.
What is belief bias in reasoning?Answer: Judging an argument by the believability of its conclusion rather than its logical support.
When is the central route to persuasion most likely?Answer: When a person has enough motivation and ability to carefully consider the arguments.