Author Description

Noteworthy expert in psychology and intelligence Robert J. Sternberg gives an innovative introduction to psychology, focusing on the evolution of ideas and dialectical thinking. This focus on the evolution of ideas is complimented by an examination of the evolution of organisms and the importance of adaptation to their environment. Sternberg's Triarchic Theory of Intelligence (analytical, creative, and practical) is implemented and includes questions embedded within chapters as well as at the ends of chapters. Use of the Psyche myth throughout the text emphasizes continuity of thinking in psychology and exemplifies many of the phenomena that psychologists seek to study: curiosity, envy, love, compassion, altruism, and perseverance. Psyche story on inner cover and Psyche images as part openers identify the role of Psyche as the figure after whom psychology is named. In Search of questions introduce each major section, stating the major elements to be addressed in that section. Dialectical progression of psychology: from one point of view, to an opposing view, to a synthesis of the two, which then becomes the basis for a new point of view to be opposed. You'll also find the following improvements new to this edition: The text as been shortened roughly 15 percent, providing a more focused, easily approachable style to the topics and discussions. The text contains hundreds of updated references. New information and discussions focus the text on psychology as both a social science and a natural-science to better meet the needs of a natural-science oriented curriculum. Chapter outlines, summaries, bold and italicized terms, and definitions have been completely restructured for clarity. InSearch of questions now ask the major question addressed by each part of the chapter and emphasize how the study of psychology is question-driven. An increased multicultural and cross-cultural emphasis helps students understand how various cultures and subcultures relate.Ancillaries are b