In this monograph Dr. Orata examines anew the theory of formal discipline, especially Thorndyke's doctrine of the transfer of training through identical elements. According to this doctrine,“one‘mental function improves others in so far as and because they are in part identical with it, because it contains elements common to theirs.” There is no general ability, only specific abilities, and the task of education is to impart specific information and to build up particular habits which will function in specific life situations. The controversy growing out of this challenge to our age—old conception of education as cultural development still rages hotly, and this monograph is a valuable contribution on the side of the believers in education as something more than the establishment of specific S—R bonds. Dr. Orata first examines carefully the Thorndyke experiments upon transfer, from which he (Thorndyke) concludes that whatever one studies he gets about as much mental discipline as if he studies something else, and that the important thing is intellect to start