Humanities Homework Help

By the 1920–1930s, behaviorism and other theories centering on measurable actions held sway in the field of psychology. A movement in Germany—Gestalt psychology—was taking hold, however, and this movement focused on “the intrinsic nature of the whole” (Benjamin, 2019, p. 181). Theorists of this school of psychology believed in innate cognitive structures that influenced individuals’ behaviors. Gestalt psychology challenged the dominant behavioral psychology of the day and brought about a new perspective regarding the world in which we live. Ultimately, it shaped both historical and contemporary psychology, but its acceptance was not easily won.

For this Discussion, review this week’s Learning Resources. Consider challenges to the acceptance of Gestalt psychology.

By Day 3

Post by Day 3 an explanation of the historical factors that contributed to the limited acceptance of Gestalt psychology in mainstream psychology. In your explanation, explain how the “Gestalt revolt” challenged both behaviorism (specifically) and contemporary psychology (generally).

Required ReadingsBenjamin, L. T.  (2019). A brief history of modern psychology (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Wiley.

Chapter 11, “Cognitive Psychology” (pp. 179-188)Benjafield, J. G. (2008). Revisiting Wittgenstein on Köhler and gestalt psychology. Journal of the History of Behavioral Sciences, 44(2), 99–118.Koffka, K. (1922). Perception: An introduction to the gestalt-theorie. In C. D. Greed (Ed.), Classics in the History of Psychology. Retrieved from http://psychclassics.yorku.ca/Koffka/Perception/in…Seligman, M. E. P., & Csikszentmihlayi, M. (2000). Positive psychology: An introduction. American Psychologist, 55(1), 5–14.Waterman, A. S. (2013). The humanistic psychology-positive psychology divide: Contrasts in philosophical foundations. American Psychologist, 68(3), 124–133.,