About Behaviorism, Chapter 4: Operant Behavior, Quote 11

Post author:B. F. Skinner Foundation
Post published: April 6, 2017
Post category:Skinner's Quote of the Day

“People can usually say what they are looking for and why they are looking in a given place, but like other species they also may not be able to do so.” (p. 63)

Subscribe to RSS feed here

PLEASE CONSIDER BECOMING A SUSTAINER:

The B. F. Skinner Foundation is a charitable 501(c) (3) organization, EIN 42-1325722. Contributions are tax-deductible for income, gift, and estate taxes. All proceeds support the B. F. Skinner Foundation and enable us to continue our important work. Thank you to all of current and previous donors for helping us continue our mission of Better Behavioral Science for a More Humane World!

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL!

For a deep dive into the Skinnerian approach to verbal behavior and its everyday applications, please register for the Fall 2026 Skinner Session. The online event, titled Verbal Behavior in Action, will take place on October 23, 2026. It features a talk from Andre Anderson, who will examine, in his unique way, "how principles from B. F. Skinner’s Verbal Behavior can be applied to spoken word poetry to promote sustainable behavior change" (1.5 CEUs). Dave Palmer and David Roth will discuss Skinner's 1967 seminar on verbal behavior from recently discovered audiotapes (1.5 CEUs). Last but not least, Emily Kerwin with lead the panel discussion with clinicians using Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior across a variety of service settings (1.5 CEUs). Sign up now to enjoy the early bird special pricing when you register for all three!

The newest addition to the Skinner for the 21st Century series, Upon Further Reflection: Extended Edition, is available in paperback! A PDF version of the book is also available.

SKINNER'S QUOTE OF THE DAY

“People can usually say what they are looking for and why they are looking in a given place, but like other species they also may not be able to do so.” (p. 63)

You Might Also Like

Cumulative Record. Chapter 14: Why We Need Teaching Machines. Quote 16

Cumulative Record. Chapter 12: The Science of Learning and the Art of Teaching. Quote 19

Beyond Freedom and Dignity. Chapter 5: Alternatives to Punishment. Quote 11