Fact and Fable in Psychology

"Fact and Fable in Psychology" by Joseph Jastrow is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. The work explores various psychological phenomena and the misconceptions that surround them, particularly those related to the occult and pseudoscience. Jastrow aims to highlight the importance of critical thinking and scientific rigor in understanding human mental processes, emphasizing the need to distinguish between fact and belief. The opening of the book sets the stage for Jastrow's examination of the public's fascination with unusual and often erroneous concepts in psychology, including occult beliefs and spiritualism. He discusses the challenges faced by psychologists in combating widespread misconceptions fueled by sensationalism and superstition. Jastrow argues for a grounded view of psychology that prioritizes normal mental functions over more obscure psychic phenomena, proposing that a deeper understanding of common psychological processes can illuminate the irregularities that captivate popular interest.