This book is an important reference source for the origins and subsequent development of the principal concepts that define the discipline of psychology. It provides a quick read for those with specific needs in intellectual history, yet provides sufficient references for the scholar who wants to delve more deeply into the subject. Perhaps more important, it helps the reader to understand the roots of contemporary psychology and the dynamic nature of psychology's concepts. It is a welcome addition to my research library even though it means I now have to redesign my students. The Journal of the History of Behavioral Sciences
This volume reports the historical development and contemporary usages of basic concepts in general psychology. The origin and changing connotations of each entry's subject are traced. The definitions are supplemented by bibliographic citations of additional scources of information and by annotations of the cited references. This dictionary stresses the historical development of concepts in scientific psychology, focusing on the subject matter of general psychology and including explanations of behavior in behavioral, rather than physiological, terms. This valuable study relates to all fields of psychology. It is the only reference presently available that can claim to provide comprehensive bibliographic information and it will be immensely useful to reference librarians and students of general psychology.