The Human Mind by Abraham Jacob, an overview of the developments in the field of psychology since the early nineteenth century, covers a wide spectrum, including the birth of modern psychology and the various schools of thought that engaged with the world of clinical disorders and abnormal psychology. The first few chapters in the book, in line with the dominance of Freudian psychoanalysis in treating clinical disorders, aptly discuss the role of sexuality in diagnosing and treating clinical disorders. The pioneering work of Freud is repeatedly referred to for building context for later theories. This also establishes the ground for further analysis of different domains of psychology.
Subsequent chapters present biographical and intellectual portraits of seminal figures in modern psychology, including Freud, Adler, Jung, Erikson, Maslow, Rogers, Piaget, Bandura, William James, and Simone de Beauvoir. The book has been organized into various themes, viz. sexuality, cosmic and historical, nurturance, mothering, ego and nothingness, man in society, behaviourism, child psychology, spiritualism, feminism, madness, and modern thought. The width of coverage of psychological traditions is a reflection of the author’s pluralistic and inclusive attempt at studying psychology.
In the final chapter, the author has presented a critique of psychoanalysis, highlighting its heavy reliance on the patients to cure themselves. He is equally critical of psychiatry in relying heavily on trying to find a physiological explanation for psychological disorders and being overly objective in understanding subjective disorders. In an attempt to address problems and challenges that psychology faces, Jacob turns to two very unlikely sources. He first refers to Ayn Rand’s strong critique of psychology, almost referring to the neurotic as infantile and weak. The ultimate effort by Jacob in trying to find answers to the mysteries of the human mind is by turning to Buddhism and in recognizing the transitory nature of life. The book’s culmination appears to be a reflection of his own journey of finding meaning in life.
Jacob’s long career in the civil services and his training in literature combined with his keen interest in academic pursuits are well reflected in the book. The Human Mind presents an insight into the world of psychology through annotations developed over years of readings and writing. His broad knowledge base of psychological concepts and theories serve as trigger points for readers to take up further studies based on their interests within psychology. While there are many in-text references, the citations are inadequate, as is the bibliography. The author has been able to succinctly summarize his learning and his thoughts. However, in the absence of adequate referencing, the book does not hold academic merit.
Jacob has explored various domains of psychology in keeping with his interest. He has not focussed on presenting either a complete or a balanced approach to understanding psychology. Contemporary perspectives, such as positive psychology and critical psychology, are missing. The book would have greatly benefitted from a detailed reference list and perhaps, suggestions for further reading.
Toolika Wadhwa is Associate Professor, Education, Shyama Prasad Mukherji College for Women, University of Delhi, Delhi.