To say that psychology is empirical means that its conclusions are based on direct observation rather than on reasoning, speculation, traditional beliefs, or common sense. Psychologists are not content with having ideas that sound plausible. They conduct research to test their ideas. Psychologists find a way to make direct, objective, and precise observations to answer such questions. The empirical approach requires a certain attitude- a healthy brand of skepticism .
Empiricism is a tough taskmaster.
It demands data and documentation. Psychologists' commitment to empiricism means that they must learn to think critically about generalizations concerning behavior. Although psychology is based on observation, a string of unrelated observations would not be terribly enlightening. To achieve these goals they must construct theories. A theory is a system of interrelated ideas used to explain a set of observations .