Biological Approaches Portfolio
In the portfolio assignment from Unit 2, you were asked to write an essay in which you argued which was the most significant moment in the history of psychology. Now that you have learned a great deal more about the history and practices of psychology, you will once again return to the topic of history.
For this assignment, consider the following quote by Hermann Ebbinghaus, and write about 250 words explaining its meaning:
"Psychology has a long past, but only a short story."
Remember: There is no singular meaning or "right' answer to this question. You are simply expected to take the knowledge you've acquired during this course to present your opinion as to the meaning and/or significance of this quote.
This is a portfolio item. When you are finished, please submit your answers to your teacher using the Drop Box below.
The quote by Hermann Ebbinghaus, "Psychology has a long past, but only a short history," can be interpreted in a variety of ways. One possible interpretation is that while the study of psychology as a concept has been around for centuries, it has only recently become a formalized and recognized field of study.
Throughout history, there have been various influences on the development of psychological thought, such as philosophical inquiries into the nature of the mind and behavior, as well as empirical investigations into mental processes. However, it was not until the late 19th century that psychology truly began to emerge as a distinct discipline with its own methodologies, theories, and practices.
In this sense, psychology's past is indeed long, as it can be traced back to ancient civilizations and philosophical traditions. But its history, as we understand it today, is relatively short in comparison. The formalization of psychology as a scientific field is a relatively recent development, and much of the foundational research and theories that shape the field today have been established within the last century or so.
Overall, Ebbinghaus's quote highlights the evolution of psychology from a longstanding concept to a rigorous and continually evolving scientific discipline. It also underscores the ongoing nature of psychological research and the potential for future advancements in our understanding of the human mind and behavior.