Shakespeare and the Experimental Psychologist

This book explores thought experiments in Shakespeare and shows how experimental psychology can be found in early modern English literature.

Fathali M. Moghaddam (Author)

9781108798365, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 10 June 2021

200 pages
22.8 x 15 x 1.1 cm, 0.34 kg

'By exploring the historical roots of experimental psychology through his discussions of thought experiments in Shakespeare's plays, Moghaddam has demonstrated the importance of breaking out of disciplinary boundaries for deeper and better explanations of human behavior.' Philip G. Zimbardo, Professor Emeritus of Psychology, Stanford University, California, and author of The Lucifer Effect

Gain a better understanding of human behavior by exploring thought experiments in Shakespearean plays and the historical roots of experimental psychology within early modern literature. This book combines scientific psychology with English literature to discuss thought experiments in selected Shakespeare plays and examine the central role of thought experiments in the natural sciences. Thought experiments are essential for progress in scientific research. Indeed, Albert Einstein and a number of other leading scientists relied almost exclusively on thought experiments. Thought experiments also play a pivotal role in English literature, particularly in Shakespeare plays. By focussing on thought experiments and experimental psychology's place within early modern English literature, the volume establishes a more wholistic approach to understanding human behavior.

Preface
Acknowledgements
1. Introducing Shakespeare's psychological thought experiments
2. Experimental research
Part I. Thought Experiments Involving Plays within Plays: 3. Hamlet
4. Henry IV-Part- I
Part II. Thought Experiments and the Power of Context: 5. The Tempest
6. As You Like It
7. King Lear
8. Othello
9. Richard III
10. Macbeth
11. Julius Caesar.

Subject Areas: Cognition & cognitive psychology [JMR], Experimental psychology [JML], Shakespeare studies & criticism [DSGS], Shakespeare plays [DDS]