Hartley's Theory of the Human Mind, on the Principle of the Association of Ideas; with essays relating to the subject of it

London: J Johnson, 1775. First Edition.. recent half leather and marbled bds... A very good copy.. 8vo.

Hartley was a medical practitioner who formulated a theory relating mental processes to physiological concomitants. The theory of vibrations and their association are the basis for higher intellectual processes. Along with Hume and Berkeley Hartley's book formed the speculative base for the philosophy and psychology of mind in the 18th century. Hartley's original thought on the association of ideas introduced an important concept in psychology. Priestley generally supported the views of Hartley. He did, however, omit the theory of vibrations but accepted the mechanism of association of ideas and theory of mind. The essays noted in the title are Priestley's commentary on Hartley's method and conclusions and illustrate his scientific materialism. A difficult book to come by in the trade. Crook PM - 365; see Wolf, 18th Century.