How does the physiological approach generally view human beings?

The physiological approach views human beings primarily as biological machines due to its focus on the ways that biological processes influence thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This perspective emphasizes the role of the brain, nervous system, hormones, and genetics in determining human behavior and mental processes. By interpreting behaviors and psychological phenomena through the lens of bodily functions and biological structures, this approach aligns with a mechanistic understanding of human beings—suggesting that just as machines operate based on physical laws, so too do humans operate based on biological imperatives and systems.

This idea stems from a broader scientific perspective that seeks to understand psychological phenomena through empirical evidence and observable biological activities, such as brain activity measured through neuroimaging techniques or the influence of neurotransmitters on mood and behavior. In essence, the physiological approach underscores the intricate link between our biology and our psychological experiences, portraying humans as organisms whose actions can be understood through a biological framework.