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Giving up instincts in psychology -- or not?
Passauer Schriften Zur Psychologiegeschichte
|February 28, 2009
Summary
McDougall's instinct theory, though considered obsolete, influenced later psychologists like Tolman. Tolman
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- History of Psychology
- Behavioral Psychology
Background:
- William McDougall's theory of instincts was a prominent framework in early 20th-century psychology.
- This theory was widely believed to have been abandoned by the mid-1920s.
- The influence of instinct theories on subsequent psychological thought is a subject of historical debate.
Observation:
- This paper examines the enduring influence of McDougall's instinct theory beyond its perceived obsolescence.
- A specific case study focuses on the evolution of Edward C. Tolman's psychological concepts.
- Tolman's concept of 'demand' is analyzed as a developmental progression from McDougall's 'instinct'.
Findings:
- McDougall's instinct theory demonstrably persisted in the work of certain psychologists.
- E.C. Tolman's conceptualization of 'demand' (encompassing purpose, determining adjustment, and instinct) shows clear lineage from McDougall's ideas.
- This suggests a more nuanced trajectory for instinct theory in psychology than commonly acknowledged.
Implications:
- Re-evaluating the history of psychological theories requires acknowledging subtle, ongoing influences.
- Understanding the evolution of concepts like 'demand' provides insight into the development of purposive behaviorism.
- This research contributes to a richer understanding of the intellectual lineage within psychology.
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