The purposeful behavior of animals and humans

Author: Edward C. Tolman
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1999-11-01
Features: Psychology as a science is relatively young, but its origins can be traced back to the dawn of human thought. Before the 18th century, psychological ideas were scattered among the writings of ancient Greek and Chinese philosophers, functional psychologists in Islam and Christianity, and mechanists during the Scientific Revolution. By the 18th and 19th centuries, building on previous research, several major theories and practices—including associationism, naturalism, positivism, evolutionism, research on the scientific frontier, and experimental physiology—accelerated the differentiation of psychology from philosophy, laying the foundation for psychology to become an independent discipline. However, the true development of psychological science occurred in the 20th century. Looking back at the achievements of psychological science over these hundred years not only helps people understand its own position and role, providing a comparative benchmark for today's research, but also offers historical experience and lessons for the future direction of psychological science in the 21st century, promoting its healthier development. The purpose of publishing "A Comprehensive Overview of 20th-Century Psychology" is precisely this.