Habit and Instinct
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| Habit and Instinct by C. Lloyd Morgan - PDF book |
Habit and Instinct is both a scientific and philosophical text: it insists that psychology must respect biology, and that animal behavior is best explained by the interplay of inherited instincts and acquired habits. Morgan’s cautious, rational approach laid the groundwork for modern behavioral science.
The book begins with preliminary definitions and illustrations to provide a foundation for understanding the concepts of habit and instinct.
The author delves into the locomotion of young birds, examining how they learn to move and navigate their environment. Further observations on young birds and mammals shed light on the development of their behaviors and how they adapt to their surroundings.
The relationship between consciousness and instinctive behavior is also explored, as well as the role of intelligence in acquiring habits.
Morgan discusses the importance of imitation in learning behaviors, as well as the influence of emotions on instinctive actions.
The book also delves into the habits and instincts exhibited during the pairing season, as well as the behaviors associated with nest-building, incubation, and migration in birds.
The author also examines the relationship between organic and mental evolution, questioning whether acquired habits can be inherited.
The topics of modification and variation in behaviors are also explored, as well as the role of heredity in shaping human habits.
Throughout the book, Morgan provides detailed observations and insights into the behaviors of animals, drawing on his own research and experiences.
The frontispiece of the book features a group of young birds, captured in a drawing by G. E. Lopes.
"Habit and Instinct" offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of animal behaviors, shedding light on the development of habits and instincts in various species. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of animal behavior and the role of habits and instincts in shaping their actions.
Table of Contents
- Chapter I. Preliminary Definitions and Illustrations
- Chapter II. Further Observations on Young Birds – p.80
- Chapter III. The Relation of Consciousness to Instinctive Behaviour – p.126
- Chapter IV. Intelligence and the Acquisition of Habits – p.144
- Chapter V. Imitation – p.166
- Chapter VI. The Emotions in Their Relation to Instinct – p.186
- Chapter VII. Some Habits and Instincts of the Pairing Season – p.210
- Chapter VIII. The Relation of Organic to Mental Evolution – p.262
- Chapter IX. Are Acquired Habits Inherited? – p.280
- Chapter X. Modification and Variation – p.307
- Chapter XI. Heredity – p
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