Cognitive science and clinical knowledge

The cognitive revolution that has taken place in the psychological sciences is increasingly apparent in the clinical sciences, and an area which may be termed clinical cognitive science has emerged. This paper addresses the interface between this area and philosophy. The paper begins by reviewing the long-standing debate in philosophy between the positivist and hermeneutic positions. A similar debate is continued between schools of psychology influenced by these positions. Furthermore, arguments raised in preceding philosophy and psychology appear again in contemporary discussion of cognitive science. Nevertheless, the intersection between cognitive science and clinical psychology shows scientific promise. The success of this interface may be helpful in addressing some of the cognitive science, psychological, and philosophical impasses discussed in the paper.