What is Difference between “Para” and “Pseudo” in Psycho?!?
What is an example of a pseudo-psychology?
What is the difference between pseudo psychology and parapsychology?
“Para-” means “beside,” “beyond,” or “altered,” as seen in parapsychology (which studies phenomena “beyond” normal psychology), while “pseudo-” means “false” or “pretended,” as in pseudoscience (false science that lacks scientific backing). In essence, something labeled “para” is outside or alongside the norm, whereas something “pseudo” is a fake or imitation of the real thing.
I. Para-
1. Meaning: Comes from the Greek word “Para” meaning “Beside” or “Beyond”.
2. Usage: It often describes phenomena or fields of study that exist alongside or beyond established scientific boundaries.
3. Example: Parapsychology is the study of paranormal phenomena like telepathy or clairvoyance, existing “beyond” the scope of mainstream psychology.
II. Pseudo-
1. Meaning: Comes from the Greek “Pseudo-” meaning “False” or “Pretended”.
2. Usage: It’s a prefix used for things that are not genuine but only appear to be.
3. Example: A pseudoscience like astrology pretends to be a valid science but lacks scientific evidence, making it a “false” science.
III. Key Differences:
1. Nature of Association: “Para-” implies a connection to or position “alongside” something else, whereas “pseudo-” indicates something is a false or sham version.
2. Relationship to NORMAlity: “Para-” often suggests going beyond the normal, while “pseudo-” means not being truly part of the normal or recognised category.
3. Scientific Status: Something “para” might be considered a valid but fringe area of study (like parapsychology, though often disputed), whereas “pseudo” clearly indicates a lack of scientific validity.
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