Mary Whiton Calkins: The Quest for Recognition of One of the First Female Psychologists

Abstract

This manuscript is intended to support the position that Mary Whiton Calkins completed all requirements necessary to obtain a Harvard Ph.D. Although she is no longer living, this document proposes that she should have the recognition she deserves through the presentation of a posthumous Ph.D. from Harvard University. This compilation of historical information describes the life, education, and scholarly work of Mary Whiton Calkins (1863 -1930), arguably one of the most prominent female psychologists. Calkins, the first woman elected President of the American Psychological Association in 1905, founded one of the earliest psychological laboratories in history, coined the paired -associate technique, and revolutionized theories of self -psychology. Calkins attended postgraduate seminars at Harvard with psychology scholars William James, Hugo Monsterberg, and Josiah Royce. During this time she completed the coursework and other requirements necessary for completion of her doctoral degree.