<P> Rationalist philosopher Benedictus Spinoza (1632--1677) argued that ideas are the first element constituting the human mind, but existed only for actually existing things . In other words, ideas of non-existent things are without meaning for Spinoza, because an idea of a non-existent thing cannot exist . Further, Spinoza's rationalism argued that the mind does not know itself, except insofar as it perceives the "ideas of the modifications of body," in describing its external perceptions, or perceptions from without . On the contrary, from within, Spinoza argued, perceptions connect various ideas clearly and distinctly . The mind is not the free cause of its actions for Spinoza . Spinoza equates the will with the understanding, and explains the common distinction of these things as being two different things as error which results from the individual's misunderstanding of the nature of thinking . </P> <P> The biological basis of personality is the theory that anatomical structures located in the brain contribute to personality traits . This stems from neuropsychology, which studies how the structure of the brain relates to various psychological processes and behaviors . For instance, in human beings, the frontal lobes are responsible for foresight and anticipation, and the occipital lobes are responsible for processing visual information . In addition, certain physiological functions such as hormone secretion also affect personality . For example, the hormone testosterone is important for sociability, affectivity, aggressiveness, and sexuality . Additionally, studies show that the expression of a personality trait depends on the volume of the brain cortex it is associated with . </P> <P> There is also a confusion among some psychologists who conflate personality with temperament . Temperament traits that are based on weak neurochemical imbalances within neurotransmitter systems are much more stable, consistent in behavior and show up in early childhood; they can't be changed easily but can be compensated for in behavior . In contrast to that, personality traits and features are the product of the socio - cultural development of humans and can be learned and / or changed . </P> <P> Personology confers a multidimensional, complex, and comprehensive approach to personality . From a holistic perspective, personology studies personality as a whole, as a system, but in the same time through all its components, levels and spheres . </P>

A comprehensive definition of personality was given by