Psychology's Quiet Conservatism

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Psychology's Quiet Conservatism

How a Supposedly Woke Science Promotes Capitalism and Protects Privilege

Sociology Psychology Psychological theory, systems, schools and viewpoints Educational strategies and policy Politics and government Philosophy of science History of science

Author: Brian M. Hughes

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Collection: Behavioral Science and Psychology

Language: English

Published by: Palgrave Macmillan

Published on: 21st October 2025

Format: LCP-protected ePub

ISBN: 9783032077240


What if psychology isn’t as liberal as we think?

Psychology is often seen as a progressive discipline — a champion of social justice, diversity, and liberal values. But this provocative book challenges that assumption. It argues that psychology, from its historical entanglements with eugenics and colonialism to its modern-day focus on individualism, has long served to reinforce the status quo.

Even as many psychologists identify as politically liberal, the field’s methods, theories, and institutions often promote a worldview that downplays inequality, pathologizes dissent, and resists structural change. Psychology’s emphasis on personal responsibility, resilience, and self-help frequently aligns more closely with conservative ideals than with progressive ones.

Exploration of the myth of a “liberal bias” in psychology

This book explores how the myth of a “liberal bias” in psychology has been weaponised in today’s culture wars — and how it distracts from the field’s real political blind spots. It asks: what would it mean for psychology to truly live up to its promise of promoting human welfare?

About the book

Accessible, deeply researched, and sharply argued, Psychology’s Quiet Conservatism is essential reading for anyone interested in how science shapes society — and how society shapes science.

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