ABSTRACT
Max Wertheimer has often been credited as the first to propose a Gestalt theory in psychology. How does the Gestalt orientation fit with his world view? It ties in intimately. Gestalt theory was scientifically rigorous without being atomistic or reductionistic, and was thoroughly holistic without being mystical or vague. Gestalt theory and Wertheimer's Weltanschauung are not identical, but they are closely related to each other. Wertheimer provided the initial formulations and a broad humanistically–and logically–oriented perspective. His version of Gestalt theory matched his philosophy and his personal style, and his scholarly contributions to the Gestalt literature were also consistent with them. The ideas and discoveries of Max Wertheimer have transformed the situation of psychology. Most psychologists are familiar mainly with his contributions in perception and thinking.
