Edward Thorndike

Date of Birth: August 31, 1874

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: August 9, 1949

Biography

Edward Lee Thorndike was an influential American psychologist who made significant contributions to the field of educational psychology, learning theory, and animal behavior. Born on August 31, 1874, in Williamsburg, Massachusetts, Thorndike’s work laid the foundation for much of the behaviorist movement in psychology. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Wesleyan University in 1895 and later pursued graduate studies at Harvard University, where he was influenced by the renowned psychologist William James. He completed his Ph.D. at Columbia University in 1898. Thorndike is best known for his work on the “law of effect,” which posits that responses followed by satisfying outcomes are more likely to recur, while those followed by unpleasant outcomes are less likely to be repeated. His research on animal intelligence, particularly through experiments with cats in puzzle boxes, helped to shape the understanding of operant conditioning. Over his career, he published numerous articles and books, including “Animal Intelligence” (1911) and “Educational Psychology” (1903). Thorndike’s influence extended beyond psychology into education, where his ideas contributed to the development of standardized testing and educational measurement. He served as a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, for many years and was a prolific writer and researcher until his death on August 9, 1949.

5 Interesting Facts about Edward Thorndike

1. Edward Thorndike was one of the first psychologists to use animals in his research, pioneering the experimental study of animal behavior.

2. He introduced the “law of effect,” which is a core concept in the study of operant conditioning and behavioral psychology.

3. Thorndike’s research on educational psychology led to the development of early standardized tests, which influenced modern educational assessment.

4. He was a lifelong advocate of applying scientific principles to the study of human learning and education.

5. Thorndike was elected president of the American Psychological Association in 1912 and was a key figure in the establishment of the field of educational psychology.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Edward Thorndike

1. “Psychology helps to measure the probability that an aim is attainable.”

2. “The function of intellect is to provide a means of modifying our reactions to the circumstances of life, so that we may secure pleasure, the symptom of welfare.”

3. “Colors and pictures are not as important as our feeling of them.”

4. “For every fact there is an infinity of hypotheses.”

5. “The mind is man’s most exceptional characteristic. It sets him apart from all other animals.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While historical figures like Edward Thorndike did not typically accumulate wealth in the manner of contemporary celebrities or entrepreneurs, his academic and professional contributions were highly regarded. It is challenging to quantify his net worth in modern terms, but his impact on psychology and education was invaluable.

Children

Edward Thorndike had four children: Elizabeth Frances Thorndike, Edward L. Thorndike Jr., Robert L. Thorndike, and Alan Thorndike. His son, Robert L. Thorndike, followed in his footsteps and became a prominent psychologist known for his work in psychometrics and educational psychology.