PSYC 101 Chapter 1: Chapter 1 Evolution of a Science (Psychology).pdf
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PSYC 101 Full Course Notes
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Began college as chemistry major, switched to anatomy. Became a professor at harvard university and became a psych prof. Structuralism helps understand structure of mental processes, functionalism understands what functions the mental processes serve. James inspired by the ideas in charles darwin"s natural selection. James reasoned that consciousness must serve an important biological function. Mind"s mistakes interest us primarily as paths to achieving a better understanding of mental activity and behaviour, also have practical consequences. Set sail on biological expedition to the amazon, traveled to europe, became interested in psychology. Returned from his european tour inspired by the idea of approaching psychological issues from a scientific perspective. James taught the first course at an american university to draw on the new experimental psychology developed by wundt and his german followers. James agreed with wundt on some points, including importance of focusing on immediate experience and the usefulness of introspection as a technique.
