The roots of modern psychological thought and methodology are explored in this course. We will trace these roots from their origins in philosophy and the natural sciences through the early schools of psychology to its current form. In addition to learning about the major schools and systems of psychology (e. g., Functionalism, Structuralism, Gestalt, etc.), we will explore how cultural and political forces shape psychological theories. We will also examine the lives and works of the men and women whose work created psychology's foundation.
Course Objectives:
Objective: To develop a basic understanding of the various processes of scientific development and change (eg. paradigmatic theory, world hypotheses, Zeitgeist)
Objective: To become familiar with the chronological history of ideas which contribute to the field of psychology.
Objectives: To examine the historical context within which that historical development took place.
Objective: To be able to place current psychological thought within that historical development and context.
Objective: To recognize the role of women and people of color in the history of psychology, both as
researchers and as subjects of research.
Objective: To learn about the major figures and schools of thought in psychology's history.
Objectives: To be aware of the current changes occuring within the psychology and the history of some of the more recent subdisciplines within psychology.
