Appletons' Popular Science Monthly, February 1899: Volume LIV, No. 4, February 1899Various
Science
Appletons' Popular Science Monthly, February 1899: Volume LIV, No. 4, February 1899
Various
Science -- Periodicals; Technology -- Periodicals
For a clear and concise presentation of the framework of psychology
and its basal truths, the _Story of the Mind_[43] may be commended.
Although the space afforded is only that of a bird's-eye view, no
skeleton bristling with technical terms confronts us, but an
attractive and well-furnished structure with glimpses of various
divisions that tempt us to further examination. The text is simply and
charmingly written, and may induce many to search the recesses of
psychology who, under a less skillful guide, would be frightened away.
A bibliography at the end of the volume supplies what other direction
may be needed for more advanced study. Admirable in construction and
treatment as the book is, there are, however, paths in which we can
not follow where Professor Baldwin would lead, and in others that we
undertake with him we do not recognize our surroundings as those he
describes. This is especially the case with the environment of the
genius. We do not find that "he and society agree in regard to the
fitness of his thoughts," nor that "for the most part his judgment is
_at once_ also the social judgment." If such were the case, how would
he "wait for recognition," or be "muzzled" for expressing his
thoughts? In almost all cases it is the story of Galileo over again.
In art, science, and social reform he sees far beyond his fellows.
Society can not accept him because it has not the vision of a genius.
He contradicts its judgment and is fortunate when he escapes with the
name of "crank." The military hero does not enter into this category:
he glorifies the past rather than the future; he justifies the
multitude in a good opinion of itself and, is therefore always
received.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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