A unique British psychologist: Why there can never be another Hans Eysenck

Abstract

Hans Eysenck was a compelling figure in British psychology. In many respects, his impact can never be duplicated. His astonishing output and way of doing science capitalized on his strengths, and was geared to maximal effectiveness. He became postwar British psychology's most visible researcher and most influential disciplinary voice. Eysenck's extraordinary personal qualities certainly amplified his impact. But the singular nature of this impact was made possible by the special contingencies of time and place. Eysenck arrived on the scene fully formed just prior to a period of great expansion in British psychology. He took full advantage of the circumstances he found himself in and the unprecedented opportunities with which he was presented. His exceptional impact can readily be gauged by contemplating the counterfactual effects of his absence. Hans Eysenck was a compelling figure, probably the most significant player in the history of British psychology. He is also likely to remain so for the foreseeable future precisely because he had a role and an impact that can never be duplicated. Eysenck was unusual: he had a rare combination of talent and ambition that both enabled and augmented his influence. But these personal qualities were not in themselves sufficient to make him the unique figure he was. Fate was the key. The circumstances and opportunities that marked his early career are unlikely, or simply cannot, take place again. In this sense history, and Eysenck's role in it, can never quite be repeated.