why aren't there many modern classic studies?

[lh290]

I recently got an essay question:
Most classic studies in social and developmental psychology were conducted at least 30 years ago. Why are there so few modern classics?

I can see how the change in ethical guidelines specifically in terms of deception would limit social psychology experiments throughout the past decades; but can't put my finger on what would reduce the studies in the developmental field.
Any suggestions/insights would be VERY helpful!

Thanks!

[Augustyne]

I think they were just too worried about the ethical things about it.

[hortonpilot]

Interesting question?

Must be some research going on?


Horton

[susie23]

anything under 30 years is considered contempoary/modern/present. because the ethics, ideals and society in general in basically fundermentally the same for example 20 years ago it was 1990 and really if you think about it society hasn't changed since then.

[Enigma]

anything under 30 years is considered contempoary/modern/present. because the ethics, ideals and society in general in basically fundermentally the same for example 20 years ago it was 1990 and really if you think about it society hasn't changed since then.

Seriously?  So the rise of technology or 9/11 hasn't changed our society at all?

[voodoo scientist]

What a good-looking question!

A classic or seminal study is a study that achieves profound impact on its field, something that can logically only be determined after a long time has passed for the study to actually make the aforementioned impact. The 'classic' studies of today will eventually cease being 'classic' as the information they originally uncovered is disseminated, and new 'classic studies' will appear.

So, to answer your question, the reason there are no 'classic' studies being published today is because by definition, time must pass for a study to become classic. Ask again in 30 years.