WEIRD psychology: the generalizability crisis

Henrich et al. demonstrate that most psychology research is based on WEIRD (Western, educated, industrialized, rich, democratic) samples, limiting generalizability.

The replication crisis revealed that many classic psychology findings could not be reproduced under controlled conditions. This exposed systemic problems: small samples, flexible statistical practices, academic incentives rewarding novelty over accuracy, and an editorial culture favoring positive results. The scientific community's response was a profound transformation of research norms.

The 2010s were the era of open science, the replication crisis, and data democratization. Psychology reinvented its methods and emerged as a leader in science reform. Meanwhile, social media transformed human relationships and raised new questions about mental health.

Significance: This milestone significantly contributed to the development of psychology as a science and profession, influencing research, clinical practice, or public policy.