Grant Allen 
The Colour-Sense: Its Origin and Development 

Grant Allen’s ‘The Colour-Sense: Its Origin and Development’ is a groundbreaking work that delves into the fascinating world of color perception. Published in 1879, this book explores the scientific and psychological aspects of how humans perceive color, as well as the cultural and historical influences that shape our understanding of color. Allen’s writing style is both informative and engaging, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a wide audience. This book is a significant contribution to the field of color theory and continues to be referenced by modern scholars in the field of psychology and sensory perception. Grant Allen, a Canadian-born writer and scientist, was known for his diverse interests and prolific writing career. His background in science and his passion for literature are evident in ‘The Colour-Sense’, as he seamlessly weaves together scientific research and literary analysis. Allen’s meticulous research and thoughtful insights make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of science, psychology, and culture. I highly recommend ‘The Colour-Sense: Its Origin and Development’ to readers interested in color theory, psychology, and the history of sensory perception. Grant Allen’s comprehensive exploration of the color-sense is sure to enlighten and inspire anyone curious about the nuances of human perception.

Sobre el autor

Grant Allen, born Charles Grant Blairfindie Allen on February 24, 1848, was a noteworthy Canadian science writer and novelist, distinguished for his prolific contributions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Allen’s breadth of interest spanned from science to literature, and he is well-remembered for his exploration of evolutionary theory in lay terms. One of Allen’s significant scholarly works, ‘The Colour-Sense: Its Origin and Development’, is a seminal text that examined the evolutionary aspects of colour perception, reflecting his dedication to evolutionary psychology and biology – fields that were rapidly developing in his time, influenced by the works of Charles Darwin and Herbert Spencer. Allen was a prominent figure in the intellectual circles of his era, advocating for rationalism and social reform. His literary style combined intellectual rigour with an accessible narrative approach, allowing for broad engagement with his ideas. He studied at King Edward’s School in Birmingham and later at Merton College, Oxford, where he developed his interest in science and literature. His other notable works include ‘An African Millionaire’, which displayed his versatility as an author, blending social commentary with entertainment. Allen’s legacy endures through his insightful analysis of human nature and society, his contribution to scientific discourse on perception and evolution, and his influence on the transition of literature into the modern age.