What does "objective observation" entail according to Brentano?

Brentano's concept of "objective observation" refers specifically to the observation of the externalized mental acts of other people. This approach focuses on how an individual's mental processes manifest through behaviors and expressions that can be observed and analyzed. In this context, Brentano emphasized that psychology should be concerned with these observable phenomena rather than with subjective introspection or private mental experiences.

This emphasis on objective observation allows for a more scientific approach to psychology, facilitating data collection and analysis about human behavior. Observing the actions and expressions of others provides insights into their mental states, making it possible to infer their thoughts or emotions based on observable evidence. This perspective laid the foundation for more empirical approaches in psychological research, moving away from purely introspective methods that rely on self-reporting.