<p>Heinz Werner contrasted the consensual preoccupation with hypothesis testing in experimental research and his own emphasis on the process of exploration. In this paper, the type of exploratory process that Werner is referring to is addressed, using his classic study on contour formation to exemplify this. In that study, Werner explored the phenomenon of contour formation, without testing any particular hypothesis. To further consider the distinction between the systematic exploration of a phenomenon, with a study designed to prove or disprove a specific hypothesis, I consider a study exemplifying the latter. I argue that Werner’s thinking has relevance for active researchers today and conclude that the present concern regarding the ‘replication crisis’ and the complementary advocacy of the pre-registration of studies is inherently detrimental to the process of exploration and discovery that Werner promoted for psychological research.</p>