Harvard Psychological Studies, Volume 2

"Harvard Psychological Studies, Volume 2" by Hugo Münsterberg is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This volume continues the exploration of experimental psychology initiated by Harvard University's psychological laboratory, which was established in the late 19th century. It covers various topics related to psychological research done at Harvard, including studies on optical perception, emotional expression, human attention, and comparative psychology among animals. The opening of this volume introduces Emerson Hall, a newly built facility dedicated to the study of philosophy and psychology at Harvard, which opened in December 1905. Münsterberg emphasizes the importance of adequate space and specialized facilities for psychological studies, explaining how the laboratory's design facilitates both teaching and research. He outlines the historical development of psychological education at Harvard, detailing how the laboratory has evolved and become essential for experimental psychology, and he speaks to the relationship between psychology and philosophy, asserting that a sound psychological inquiry must be grounded in philosophical understanding.