Publisher's Synopsis
Explore the journey of psychology from ancient times to today in this complete history. This engaging book looks into the rich past of psychological thought, revealing the key ideas and groundbreaking theories that have shaped our understanding of the human mind.
Starting with ancient civilizations, learn how the Egyptians, Chinese, and Indians laid the early foundations of psychology. Discover the Greek philosophers Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, whose pioneering ideas about the mind and consciousness influenced centuries of thought. As the story moves through the Medieval and Renaissance periods, see how Christian teachings, Islamic scholarship, and the revival of classical knowledge further advanced psychological ideas.
In the Enlightenment era, meet thinkers like Descartes, Locke, and Hume, whose ideas paved the way for modern scientific methods. Follow the birth of experimental psychology with John Stuart Mill and Wilhelm Wundt, and explore early schools of thought like structuralism, functionalism, and psychoanalysis, led by key figures like Freud, Jung, and Adler.
See the behaviorist revolution with Pavlov, Watson, and Skinner, and understand the rise of humanistic psychology through the works of Rogers and Maslow. Dive into the cognitive revolution, highlighted by Piaget, Chomsky, and Neisser, and learn about the development of cognitive processes and memory.
The book also covers the biological and evolutionary perspectives, exploring the brain's role in behavior, advances in brain imaging, and the application of evolutionary principles to psychology. Social and cultural influences are examined through important studies and theories, including those of Milgram, Zimbardo, Vygotsky, and Shweder.
Finally, the book looks at current trends and future directions, including positive psychology, integrative approaches, and the impact of AI and digital tools on mental health. This complete guide gives readers a deep appreciation for the complexities and wonders of the human mind, tracing the historical path of psychology and its ongoing growth.
