Which of the following individuals is considered a key figure in establishing the principles of functionalism?

William James is recognized as a key figure in establishing the principles of functionalism, which is an important school of thought in psychology. Functionalism emerged in the late 19th century as a reaction to structuralism, emphasizing the purpose of mental processes and behaviors in enabling individuals to adapt to their environments.

James believed that consciousness should be understood in terms of its functions and practical implications, rather than just the structure of its components. His work focused on how mental processes help individuals thrive, adapting to their surroundings and fulfilling their needs. This functionalist perspective laid the groundwork for later developments in psychology, including applied psychology and behaviorism, and profoundly influenced educational and clinical practices.

Wilhelm Wundt, although significant in psychology as the founder of the first psychology lab and promoter of structuralism, does not align with the principles of functionalism that James advocated. Carl Rogers is known for his contributions to humanistic psychology, while Jean Piaget is celebrated for his work on cognitive development. Both of their contributions come from different psychological frameworks, further distinguishing them from the functionalist perspective established by William James.