Writing Analysis (Graphology) Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Writing Analysis (Graphology) - Research Paper Example Handwriting involves coordination of the eyes and hand muscles. The muscles contract and release alternately, with an upstroke requiring a releasing movement, and a downstroke using a binding or contracting movement. If both motions are well balanced, the writing appears rhythmic and harmonious (Nevo 61). Predominantly contracted movements will produce writing that appears rigid and cramped, while completely expanded writing appears disintegrated and unclear. The essential concept of handwriting analysis theory is that the type of movement producing the handwriting projects the personality of the writer (Lewinson 321). Contemporary graphology dating back around 130 years is different from its ancient roots and long history. Michon’s laws of graphology formulated by Jean Hippolyte Michon, the founder of European graphology in 1875, continue to be valid today. His concept of the involvement of the brain and psychology in the process of handwriting forms the basis for the research conducted by modern graphologists. Michon believed that since the human being is a complex unit with a complete unity to the entire being, it was necessary to examine every minute element in detail. Thus, writing formed â€Å"the art of speaking to the eyes† (Bernard 4). Michon’s pupil Jamin emphasized the overall picture composed by the signes or elements in graphology. German scientists were forerunners in the field of graphology towards the end of the 19th century. Ludwig Klages who founded the first German graphologoical society in 1896, was the acknowledged leader in the field. He used his own philosophical theories as the basis for establishing laws and principles of graphology, characterology, and expressive behavior. He considered a rhythmic flow of handwriting to be most important. Klages introduced the term form niveau as an indicator of the writer’s intellectual level and cultural background. A high form of niveau indicated an