Page:American Journal of Sociology Volume 5.djvu/550

 534 THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SOCIOLOGY

the consciousness of the mechanical work distracting them. Their concentration, by reason of defective mental training, was weaker than that of the student. They soon grew restless and found the task irksome. Even their desire to excel did not always prove strong enough to keep the mind from digressing. They were easily irritated and were exceedingly sensitive over their supposed errors. The greater defect among courtesans may be due to their greater ignorance, and habits which impair clearness of the mental faculties.

In the test for color-blindness, which is made with a series of wools, similar to that in use by railways in their examinations, I found no cases of color-blindness, though both criminals and students made errors in the assignment of doubtful shades of the blues and greens. In connection with this test I attempted to ascertain if it is true, as has been so often stated, that courte- sans prefer and wear gaudy colors. I asked them to name the color they preferred for gowns and trimmings. The result shows the following selections ; blue, 23 ; pink, 8 ; red, 5 ; yel- low, 5 ; lavender, 3 ; black, purple, and green, 2 each. Observ- ing the clothing of the women as they were brought into the workhouses, I found no one color markedly predominant. Courtesans belonging to the lowest classes often have little choice in the selection of colors, for this is frequently deter- mined by other factors. Frequently they wear cast-off clothing; bright colors appeal more to the sensuous nature, and as these courtesans are almost always solicitors for patronage, they use them to attract attention ; bright fabrics are cheaper than duller shades — these are economic reasons. Colors are often chosen because associates wear them, or because they are the custom in their environment — these are among the social reasons. Thus, these factors must be considered in an attempt at explanation. Preference and the colors worn are not necessarily the same.

Of suggestive interest rather than of definite psychological value was the test of qualities. The following list was given the subject, and she was instructed to choose from it the five which appealed to her most, which she would desire for herself or friends, care being taken to explain the exact meaning of