The soul and the brain: the origins of the discussions on scientific Psychology in Brazil
In this paper, my aim is to point to the significance of the earlier discussions about the nature of Scientific Psychology in Brazil. Therefore, I will work in particular with texts of two authors, Goncalves de Magalhaes and Tobias Barreto. My interest it to demonstrate in what sense these philosophers were able to offer opposition to a current positive trend in Psychology and the same time, overcome the contemplative character of self-consciousness inherent in Psychology under the aegis of the Jesuits, in view of need for philosophical modernization in Brazil. At the same time, I intend to show that, despite the criticism of Tobias to Magalhaes, both know recognize the significance of the naturalism in Psychology, especially with regard to the task of entering the Brazilian thought in the course of Western Philosophy.