Edward C. Tolman

Edward C. Tolman was an influential psychologist known for his work in learning and behaviorism. Unlike traditional behaviorists who focused solely on observable behaviors, Tolman introduced the idea of cognitive processes, emphasizing that organisms learn by forming mental maps of their environment. He believed that behavior is goal-directed, meaning animals and humans seek to achieve specific outcomes. His work highlighted the importance of understanding the internal experiences and motivations that drive behavior, paving the way for cognitive psychology and challenging the strict behaviorist view of learning as a mere response to stimuli.