ABSTRACT
T he basic notion of tests developed to assessparticular traits or characteristics of individu-als has been present in various cultures for centuries. Historical reviews by Howard Wainer (1990) as well as Hoi K. Suen and Joseph L. French (2003) note early evidence of civil service type examinations in China (2200 B.C.E.) as officials were tested to see whether they qualify to work for the emperor. The Chinese are credited with recognizing early on that samples of behavior, measured under specific conditions, could provide accurate information about abilities and skills possessed by an individual. This information could be applied in other settings to determine the best vocational placements for officials. China instituted tests of archery, arithmetic, horsemanship, music, writing, as well as social graces, to be used in selecting candidates for various offices.
