ABSTRACT

Originally published in 1928 this short essay looks two rival theories of the time, both hypothetical, and explores which one ‘better fits the facts’.

Whether memory depends on "enduring traces" in brain structure (to use the language of Professor Semon), or whether it depends on records in "psychical structure" (to use the language of Professor McDougall).

Today it can be read and enjoyed in its historical context.

chapter Chapter I|10 pages

Introduction

chapter Chapter II|21 pages

Defects of Semon's Theory

chapter Chapter III|11 pages

Psychoplasm

chapter Chapter IV|24 pages

The Mnema

chapter Chapter V|18 pages

Association and Selection

chapter Chapter VI|10 pages

Habit

chapter Chapter VII|21 pages

Forgetting

chapter Chapter VIII|9 pages

Conclusion