Allport, Gordon W. (1897-1967), was an American psychologist known for his research in human personality. In a series of books and articles published during a period of 30 years, Allport opposed the idea that an individual's personality is a bundle of physiological drives and conditioned responses. Allport emphasized the gradual growth and unfolding of human personality. He believed that a person is not a mechanical product of environmental forces, but a unique force striving to develop his or her own potential.