Associationism (Aristotle)

Definition:

Aristotle's analysis of learning memory includes four laws of association: the laws of continguity, contrast, frequency and similarity. Accounting for learning and memory in terms of such laws of association is called associationism.

Background:

Aristotle was the first recorded individual to attempt to account for learning and memory in terms of laws of association. Later philosophers and psychologists developed extensive systems of associationistic principles, some of which were very similar to Aristotle's original laws.

Related Terms:

Aristotle (384 - 322 B.C.) Law of contiguity (Aristotle) Law of contrast Law of frequency Law of similarity Laws of association (Aristotle)

Self-Instructional Resources:

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