Glimpses from the past: Michael Wertheimer dead at 95.

Abstract

Michael was a historian by choice and calling, well-known for his Brief History of Psychology, which appeared in six editions. He also edited with Gregory Kimble a seven-volume series of Portraits of Pioneers in Psychology, an essential resource describing many of the illustrious ancestors of contemporary psychology. He was known for his long service to various professional associations, especially the APA. He was president of four APA divisions: 1 (General Psychology), 2 (Teaching of Psychology), 24 (Theoretical and Philosophical Psychology), and 26 (History of Psychology). These commitments show his extraordinary social conscience. In the Psychology Department at CU Boulder, he was highly respected for his superior knowledge and quick curiosity, but also feared for his critical questions and comments. Michael was not one to socialize with and enjoy small talk the way most of us do. Rather, his conversations were brief, to the point, and strictly academic. However, the author also learnt that behind his formal and reserved outward appearance, there was a charming, humorous, and cheerful Mensch. But most of all he was a scholar of universal knowledge, rare passion, and exemplary devotion. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).