How did the emergence of mind as a category of scientific inquiry come about in the 19th century?
Does your assigned reading state that Sigmund Freud was the originator of the science of the mind?
No. Instead I am to relate how Foucault's concept of a positive unconscious of knowledge would connect to the features of the emergence of mind as a category of scientific inquiry.
The emergence of mind as a category of scientific inquiry in the 19th century can be attributed to several key factors. One of the significant factors was the advancement in the field of psychology, which gained recognition as an independent scientific discipline during this period.
Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how the emergence of mind as a category of scientific inquiry came about in the 19th century:
1. Philosophical Contributions: Before the 19th century, the study of the mind was primarily a philosophical endeavor. Philosophers like René Descartes and John Locke laid the groundwork for understanding the mind and consciousness. Their ideas formed the philosophical basis for later scientific inquiries into the mind.
2. Physiology and Biology Influence: The 19th century witnessed significant advancements in the fields of physiology and biology. Scientists began studying the biological basis of behavior and mental processes. This led to hypotheses that the mind and mental phenomena could also be understood through scientific investigation.
3. Wilhelm Wundt and Structuralism: Wilhelm Wundt, a German physiologist and philosopher, is considered the father of modern experimental psychology. In 1879, he established the first experimental psychology laboratory at the University of Leipzig. Wundt's approach, known as structuralism, aimed to analyze the structure of consciousness through introspection and experimental methods.
4. Functionalism: Concurrently, another school of thought called functionalism emerged, led by American psychologist William James. Functionalism focused on understanding the purpose, or function, of mental processes and their relationship with behavior. James's influential book, "The Principles of Psychology," helped establish psychology as a scientific discipline in the United States.
5. Study of Abnormal Psychology: During the 19th century, there was also an increased interest in studying abnormal psychology, including mental disorders. Researchers sought to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments of psychological disorders. This emphasis on abnormal psychology contributed to the broader understanding of the complexities of the human mind.
6. Development of Psychological Testing: Psychologists in the 19th century also began developing standardized psychological tests to measure various aspects of the mind, such as intelligence and personality. These tests allowed for more systematic and objective investigation of mental processes.
Collectively, these factors played a crucial role in shaping the emergence of mind as a category of scientific inquiry in the 19th century. The contributions of key figures such as Wundt and James, along with advancements in physiology and biology, laid the foundation for the establishment of psychology as a scientific discipline focused on understanding the complexities of the mind.