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- Title
CRITIQUING THE NEW EPISTEMOLOGIES: TOWARDMINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR A SCIENTIFIC THEORY OF FAMILY THERAPY*.
- Authors
Shields, Cleveland G.
- Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze the structures of the new epistemologies. Epistemology is a technical term within the field of scientific philosophy. When it is used looselyby family therapists, confusion results. The central argument of the present author is that the new epistemologies are, in fact, weak theories. It is suggested that the practice of using the term 'epistemology' to denote theory or paradigm, be discontinued. A more limited and narrowly defined use for the term 'epistemology' is proposed. Specifically, this paper presents: (a) a discussion ofthree areas of philosophy that serve as foundations for the construction of scientific theory, (b)a critical analysis of the new epistemologies, (c) a logical structure for scientific family therapy theory, and (d) minimum requirements for a scientific theory of family therapy.
- Publication
Journal of Marital & Family Therapy, 1986, Vol 12, Issue 4, p359
- ISSN
0194-472X
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1111/j.1752-0606.1986.tb00668.x