Final answer:
The authors foresee a future where psychology can predict human behavior with great accuracy, suggesting a challenge to the idea of free will. They commend psychology's evolution from philosophy to a scientific discipline and maintain optimism about its role in addressing societal and personal issues, despite existing challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The authors of the referenced text believe that psychology has a promising future, where understanding of the human brain and behavior could lead to more accurate predictions of human actions, thus challenging the notion of free will. They acknowledge that psychology is a young science, birthed from the foundational work of scholars like Wilhelm Wundt and William James, and has since evolved to incorporate both philosophical and scientific paradigms. The text also suggests that future developments in psychology could have significant implications at both societal and personal levels, assisting in proactive change to benefit humanity. Moreover, psychology's progress is also believed to be driven by the innovative and adaptable nature of humans, despite the challenges and planetary boundaries we face.
It is important to note that the authors maintain a sense of optimism about the future, positing that the scientific study of psychology can yield tools to overcome cognitive biases and illusions, thereby enhancing philosophical understanding and personal well-being. The authors of 'Psychology 2e' illustrate a commitment to rigorously treating psychology's core concepts while incorporating contemporary coverage, making it accessible and engaging for students.