Keeping history alive is crucial to the ongoing development of psychology. Preserving and documenting past discoveries and research allows rising stars to learn from past successes while continuing to develop the profession.
The History of Psychology Centre (HoPC) provides an academic research and resource centre in the history of psychology and, in support of its work, organises events and produces publications.
A review of HoPC was completed in 2022 by external consultants. A number of recommendations were made, many which are already being implemented, to make the archives more accessible and engaging.
We keep a comprehensive online history of the BPS from its formation in 1901 to the present day.
To explore our history in greater detail, we recommend reading a number of our online articles, which can be accessed below.
A short history of the British Psychological Society - Dr Geoff Bunn
A History of Psychology in the UK - Claire Jackson
You may also wish to consult:
The British Psychological Society (1901-1941) - Beatrice Edgell
Sixty years of psychology - L.S. Hearnshaw
A brief history of the Society logo - Hannah Steinberg
Seventy-five years of The British Journal of Psychology 1904-1979 - Alan D.B. Clarke
Founding factors - Geoff Bunn
The Evolution of the Society - David Clark-Carter
If you're a researcher, then we recommend browsing our archives.
You can also view a chronology of psychology in Britain.
