13. STAGES IN THINKING.
In all thinking there are three steps or stages which may be termed discrimination, comparison, integration.
In the case of the two pencils held in the hand, it is noted that one is longer than the other. Let us analyze the process which made possible this conclusion. Step one—Attention is given first to one pencil and then to the other. In each case the pencils are distinguished from the hand and the other surrounding objects. This is discrimination. Step two—The pencils are compared in length. Step three—The two notions are united in the judgment, “Pencil number one is longer than pencil number two.” This is integration.
Another illustration. The child is requested to solvethis problem: If 8 tons of hay cost $165, what will 16 tons cost?
Statement: Given: 8 tons cost $165.
Required: 16 tons cost?
Discrimination. The child notes that 8 tons cost $165 and at this rate he is required to find the cost of 16 tons.
Comparison. The child perceives that 16 tons is twice 8 tons.
Integration. The child concludes that the cost of 16 tons will be twice the cost of 8 tons or $330.
When we think, we first tear to pieces that we may become acquainted with every part. This may be called analysis. Then we put the related pieces together again. This may be called synthesis. Before, however, the parts are re-united a certain amount of comparison is necessary. The three stages of thought might thus be denominated: (1) analysis, (2) comparison, (3) synthesis.
After the synthesis or integration it is necessary to name the result, consequently a fourth step is sometimes given, namely denomination.