Kohler's idea of animal insight was controversial because

• A. other researchers, like Thorndike, did not believe that animals demonstrated that trait.
• B. his experiment was flawed.
• C. the chimps were punished for not reaching the bananas.
• D. animals do not have self-awareness.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of Kohler's research: Kohler was a Gestalt psychologist who studied problem-solving in animals, particularly chimpanzees, to demonstrate insight learning.
2. Define insight learning: Insight learning is a sudden realization of a problem's solution without trial-and-error behavior, suggesting a deeper cognitive process.
3. Identify the controversy: Kohler's idea was controversial because it challenged the prevailing behaviorist view, particularly Thorndike's law of effect, which emphasized learning through trial and error and reinforcement.
4. Consider Thorndike's perspective: Thorndike believed that animals learn through a gradual process of trial and error, and he was skeptical of the idea that animals could demonstrate insight, as it implied a level of cognitive processing similar to humans.
5. Evaluate the implications: The controversy highlights the debate between behaviorist and cognitive perspectives in psychology, with Kohler's work suggesting that animals might possess more complex cognitive abilities than previously thought.