How do we make decisions? How do we learn to speak? How does memory work? Why does our mind sometimes seem to turn against us? These are questions that have long preoccupied psychologists, who strive to understand human behavior, emotions, and thoughts. But how can such fleeting things be studied in a scientific way?

Nicky Hayes narrates the fascinating story of psychology across the centuries and around the world. She presents the most important theories, featuring thinkers such as Carl Jung, Anna Freud, Frantz Fanon, and Daniel Kahneman. She describes experiments designed to expand our knowledge, such as Pavlov's research with dogs, Milgram's electric shock studies, and the CIA’s secret mind control programs. She clarifies key concepts like child development, the inferiority complex, and post-traumatic stress disorder, and explains how psychological research has been used for both good and bad purposes.

This Little History guides us through the world of a constantly evolving science, showing us how much there still is to learn.

“A commanding, comprehensive and extremely well-written history of the science of psychology... A delightful introductory book that is always engaging. I highly recommend it.” Robert Sternberg, Professor of Psychology, Cornell University

“This captivating little history is essential reading for anyone interested in psychology. Hayes leads the reader, with confidence, sensitivity and depth, through the discovery of all its key aspects.” Anna Katharina Schaffner, author of The Art of Self-Improvement

“Nicky Hayes presents with freshness the ideas, findings, controversies, and personalities that shaped the field of psychology.” Howard Gardner, author of Five Minds for the Future