"Army Mental Tests" by Robert Mearns Yerkes is a comprehensive and informative look at the history and development of mental testing in the military. Yerkes provides a detailed examination of the various tests used to assess soldiers' mental abilities during World War I, highlighting the importance of these assessments in identifying individuals best suited for specific military roles.
The book offers insights into the challenges faced by the military in selecting and training soldiers, as well as the ways in which mental testing was used to improve recruitment and training processes. Yerkes also explores the ethical and practical implications of using mental tests in military settings, shedding light on the controversies surrounding their use.
Overall, "Army Mental Tests" is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the history of psychology, military science, or testing and assessment. Yerkes' thorough research and engaging writing style make this book a valuable resource for understanding the role of mental testing in shaping the military of the past and present.
Book Description:
Prepared in cooperation with the staff of the surgeon general's office as a source of information and printed materials concerning psychological testing used within the United States Army and indications of the possible use of similar methods in education and industry. - Summary by Leon Harvey