Liberal Bias on Psychology: A Comment on Bartels (2023)

Abstract

Several prior empirical studies have documented considerable mistakes, often ongoing, in how research is presented in introductory psychology textbooks. Extending upon these previous analyses, Bartels notes that introductory psychology textbooks also demonstrate a pronounced liberal/progressive bias. Given the pronounced ideological bias among both practitioners and researchers in the field, this should not be a surprise. In this comment, I extend Bartels’ observations by raising the issues with textbooks reflect widespread problems within our field. It is well past time that psychology takes a hard look at how to increase rigor and reduce political biases.