Little Masterpieces of Science: Mind

This volume gathers a remarkable set of essays by leading thinkers of the late nineteenth century, each exploring a different facet of the human mind. Written at a time when psychology was just emerging as a distinct science, the contributors blend careful observation with the newest experimental methods. Together they offer a snapshot of how scholars began to map mental processes, from perception to memory.

The collection opens with John Fiske’s insight into early childhood, showing how the length of infancy can illuminate family dynamics and evolutionary history. James Sully and Francis Galton turn their attention to twins and the power of statistical analysis, while William Hudson humorously compares the eyesight of so‑called savages with that of civilized peoples. Further chapters probe the hidden layers of consciousness, the mechanics of memory, and the role of common sense, before Thomas H. Huxley argues for hands‑on laboratory work and manual training as essential to education.