PSYC 200 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Behavioural Genetics, Reinforcement, Gestalt Psychology

• School: University of Calgary
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 200
• Professor: Peter Van Der Velde

Document Summary

Humans used to try and explain inexplicable events in their natural world through myths (are stories of forgotten origin that seek to try and explain the mysteries of life and apply to all cultures) Ceremonies and rituals were then made on these myths and theorists were known to have believed they later became a religion. Theorists also believe that myths are humans taking a try to understand and make sense of people and their world. Although many myths focused on the supernatural forces, this contributed to the intellectual curiosity and quest for knowledge that characterized greek philosophers. These philosophers then tried to determine the nature of reality and limits of human awareness. Philosophy (defined as the study of knowledge, reality, and meaning of life) was studied by philosophers such as socrates, plato, and aristotle. Psychologists and philosophers also emphasized that theories and ideas about how the world works are in fact not final, but instead there is always some improvement.