The Influence of “Background Theories”: Karl S. Lashley's Epistemology

In this article, my aim is to explore the little-known epistemology of Karl S. Lashley in the context of the discussions and dynamics between Gestalt psychology and Behaviorism. I will demonstrate how Lashley's position shifted between behaviorism (John B. Watson) and Gestalt and holistic psychology (Wolfgang Köhler, Kurt Goldstein), both in his collaborations and his theories. The article argues that, Lashley did not seek to reconcile behaviorism and Gestalt psychology. Instead, he rejected the need for a unified psychological theory.