| I propose an adaptation of Michael Walzer's "thick and thin" conceptual framework, drawn from his political philosophy, as an epistemological tool for examining the relationship between relativism and universalism in psychology, and ultimately as a model for reconciliation. I will argue that psychological concepts are variable across space and time, from one culture or era to another. That is, they are essentially local phenomena, shaped by the knowledge and practices of a particular society. Following a local (thick) analysis of psychological phenomena, these can then be examined comparatively across diverse societies in an attempt to identify (thin) similarities and disparities, aiming to discern phenomena that are pertinent across time and space.;In an attempt to examine the utility of my proposed framework for reconciling relativism and universalism in psychology, I will present a case study: moral development theory of Lawrence Kohlberg, along the published critiques of his work. This will put into question the universal validity of this theory, while highlighting several studies that are more culturally grounded. (Abstract shortened by UMI.). |
