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Social Psychology and Neuroscience: Strange Bedfellows or a Healthy Marriage?

Yale University, john.dovidio{at}yale.edu

Adam R. Pearson

Yale University

Patrick Orr

Yale University

In this paper, we assess what neuroscience theory and method have contributed to the study of group processes and intergroup relations and what we see as potential future contributions to the discipline. We briefly review the historical relation between neuroscience and social psychology, identify issues that may limit the value of neuroscience to the study of group processes and relations, and then argue that social neuroscience indeed holds significant promise for understanding many key elements of group processes and intergroup relations. Both the potential problems and the potential benefits of bridging neuroscience and social psychology are considered in terms of theoretical considerations, empirical issues, and practical implications. We conclude that, although not all group phenomena may be reducible to neural activity and pathways, there are significant benefits to social psychology by having an even broader multidisciplinary orientation within social psychology, one that incorporates the complementary perspectives, techniques, and knowledge of neuroscience.

Key Words: emotion • implicit attitudes • intergroup relations • neuroimaging • prejudice • racism • social neuroscience

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