Why should one trust the advice of authorities in psychology?

The reason to trust the advice of authorities in psychology is that they systematically and objectively compare different conditions. This approach is grounded in scientific methods, where authorities employ rigorous research methodologies to gather and analyze data. By using systematic comparisons, they can draw valid conclusions, establish cause-and-effect relationships, and provide evidence-based recommendations. This objective evaluation allows for a more valid understanding of psychological phenomena than relying on personal opinions or intuition alone.

In contrast, the other options highlight less reliable sources of authority. An approach based solely on experience may lack the necessary systematic evaluation required for trustworthiness. Agreement among authorities does not guarantee accuracy or reliability; healthy scientific discourse often involves varying opinions that can lead to a deeper understanding of complex issues. Lastly, relying exclusively on intuition is problematic, as intuition can be biased and not necessarily rooted in empirical research. Thus, option B stands out as the most valid reason to trust the advice of authorities in psychology, based on their methodological rigor.