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Research Heymans Institute Research Units Theory and History of Psychology

Goals

The expertise group Theory and History of Psychology undertakes interdisciplinary studies on the role that psychology plays in contemporary society. On the one hand this is done through the critical exploration of the basic assumptions underlying psychological knowledge and research. And on the other hand, it’s done by analysing how the discipline has been defined and redefined—originally as “the science of the soul,” then “of behaviour” and “of mind” and “brain” (and other things besides)—leading to the psychologization of society and producing profound changes in our understanding of human and animal nature.

The members of the department work in close connection with researchers and groups at other research institutions and universities, including

We also serve on the editorial boards of several journals, including the Journal for the History of the Behavioral Sciences (Mülberger & Derksen), History of Psychology (Mülberger & Burman), Theory & Psychology (Mülberger & Derksen), New Ideas in Psychology (Burman), Review of General Psychology (Burman), Dynamis (Mülberger).

Currently the research topics of the group are:

  • Science Communication
  • Histories of Human Engineering
  • Intelligence and Meritocracy: Testing in the 20th century
  • Replication crises in psychological research, laboratory practices, and open science
  • Neuroethics and Neurolaw
  • Theory and History of Psychiatry
  • Theory and History of Developmental Psychology
  • Methods of Critical Digital History
Last modified:18 July 2024 2.55 p.m.