Historical and Conceptual Issues in Psychology Paperback – 9 November 2012

"...a refreshing departure from typical history of psychology texts...it is delivered with scholarly detail and an engaging style...I can wholeheartedly recommend this book as a good textbook and a good read." Professor Harry Whitaker, Northern Michigan University

‘…this book is well written and serves as an essential undergraduate text …it translates complex issues in the form of a very readable and interesting account' Professor Martin Bowles, Birmingham City University

Offering a lively and engaging introduction to historical and conceptual issues in psychology, this second edition has been updated throughout to provide deeper analysis, additional historical material and greater discussion of current debates.

Excerpts from original texts, profiles of key figures and fascinating examples drawn from across the world take the reader from ancient Greece to modern day debates, stopping off at important developments in psychology, philosophy and science along the way.

New for the second edition:

• A new chapter focused on the emergence of the natural sciences and psychology
• Expanded coverage on mind/brain, critical psychology, humanist approaches, diversity, feminism and sexuality
• More detail is included on key historical figures, periods and events
• A new feature,’Myth busting’, explores and stimulates debate around common misconceptions in psychology

This is essential reading for both undergraduate psychology students and those interested in how the discipline has developed from ancient origins to reach its current standing today.

Marc Brysbaert is Professor of Psychology at Ghent University. Previously he taught at Royal Holloway, University of London, where the first edition of this book was written.

Kathy Rastle is Professor of Cognitive Psychology at Royal Holloway, University of London.

• Extension of historical coverage to include a more in-depth insight into historical issues, events and key figures, broadening students’ viewpoints.
• New ‘myths in psychology’ feature focusing on the common misconceptions within the field to encourage critical reflection.
• Inclusion of additional material on mind/brain, critical psychology, humanist approaches, diversity, feminism, sexuality and cross-cultural, ensuring students learn from a comprehensive source.
• New timeline feature relevant to each chapter demonstrates clearly the evolution of themes and ‘periods’ over time, giving students a balanced comparison.