The problem of bogus behavioural research

Dave Burke  |  Comment
Date posted:  10 Feb 2026
Share Add       
The problem of bogus behavioural research

Photo by Mina Rad on Unsplash

One of my catchphrases is, "Psychology and theology can be friends." We have the truth in Christ, but we also benefit from God’s common grace to humanity through science.

However, it is very important – especially in psychology - that you are careful about the science.

'Pop-psychology'

Pop-psychology is popular and there are rich rewards to be made by writers and researchers. A number of psychologists have become like rock stars during the first quarter of this century. David Comerford, Professor of Economics at Stirling University describes this era: “It’s almost like the more simplistic you could make your theory, the more fun, the more likely it was that you were going to get big rewards."

Share
< Previous article| Comment| Next article >
Read more articles on:   psychology  /  science  /  theology
Read more articles by Dave Burke >>
Features
Pastor, have you hit 'rock bottom'?

Pastor, have you hit 'rock bottom'?

The Daily Telegraph recently featured a ten-year-long study of 500 Anglican clergy revealing that 41 per cent felt demoralised, 40 …

Comment
Reflecting theologically on war in the Middle East

Reflecting theologically on war in the Middle East

It is rare that theology features in the decision making of great nations, but there are reports of US military …

New here?

Register and get three free articles each month!

Register

Need to advertise?

We can help you reach Christians across the country

Find out more