Diseases of memory : an essay in the positive psychology / by Th. Ribot.

  • Ribot, Th. (Théodule), 1839-1916.
Date:
1885
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Diseases of memory : an essay in the positive psychology / by Th. Ribot. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    growth, which hâve been compared with the func- tions of memoiy, but hasten at once to décisive facts. A general idea of the manner in wliicli new functions are acqnired, retained, and automatic- ally reprodnced, may be obtained from the mus- cular tissue of the animal kingdom. “Ex|)eri- ence teaches us daily,” says Hering, “that a muscle becomes stronger in proportion to its use. Muscular fiber, responding feebly at first to the excitation transmitted by the motor nerve, does so more vigorously the more frequently it is stimulated, allowing natural periods of repose. After each action it is better prepared for action, more disposed to a répétition of the same work, readier to reproduce a given organic process. It gains more in activity than in repose. We hâve here, in the simplest form, the nearest approach in physical conditions to that faculty of repro- duction which is found in a state so complex in nerve-matter. 'VYliat is observed in muscular tissue is found, to a greater or less extent, in the substance of other organs. Everywhere we perçoive, with an increase of activity and proper interrals of repose, an increased power in organic functions.”* * riering, “Ueber d.'isGedâchtniss als allgemeine Function der organisirten Materle. Vortrag,” etc., 2® Auflage, tVien, Gerold’s Sohn, 1876, p. 13.