The psychology of individual differences

Text from page 1: "Although the subject of individual differences is comparatively new from the standpoint of experimental treatment, it is a theme which has been pondered over many times in practical life, from the very beginning of time. Whenever men are confronted with the problem of choosing from a great number of individuals one who can accomplish a task most efficiently, the question of individual differences immediately arises. That every man differs from his neighbor is a fact universally recognized. But what means have we at present of determining these differences? The measuring rod commonly applied is "general impression", and this is usually reliable if we have the time to form the proper impression. But it takes time. If the world of business had a few mental tests, a reliable measuring rod of an individual's ability, what a saving of time and trouble it would be."