In what ways did Darwin’s data and ideas alter the subject matter and methods of psychology?
Darwin’s theory of evolution brought about a drastic change in the subject matter of psychology. The structuralists were concerned with analyzing the components of consciousness, now psychologists were interested in knowing the function of the consciousness.
Many researchers were now stressing upon the functions of consciousness, than uncovering the elements or contents of consciousness. The ideas of Wundt and Titchener, about learning the elements was now losing its charm, people now wanted to study the function of consciousness that gave adaptive ability to animals and humans alike.
Functionalism began under the ideas of Darwin. Darwin procured his data from many sources like geology, demography, archeology, among others. While Wundt ideas were mainly derived from physiology.
Scientists now had different techniques to study human nature. The use of experimental introspection was now being sidelined, to a newer and different method. After Darwin’s ideas, psychologist now had a more elaborate play field to collect data from.
Darwin also introduced the concept of individual differences. According to him, if each offspring was similar to its ancestors, then evolution cannot occur. He said that because offspring’s differed from its ancestors, it means they have variations. Variation means individual differences, which was very essential for evolution.
The functionalists were now finding the techniques by which these individual differences can be measured. Unlike the structuralists, who were studying the elements of the mind, the functionalists were finding ways in which individual minds differed.