Reflections on Behaviorism and Society. Chapter 6: The Steep and Thorny Way to a Science of Behavior. Quote 13

Post author:B. F. Skinner Foundation
Post published:October 10, 2019
Post category:Skinner's Quote of the Day

“Even when helpful, an observed or hypothetical inner determiner is no explanation of behavior until it has itself been explained, and the fascination with an inner life has allayed curiosity about the further steps to be taken.” (p. 77)

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!

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.

An Online Edition of The Analysis of Behavior by Holland & Skinner is now available free of charge! Imagine being taught at Harvard by B. F. Skinner! In a sense, that is what this course provides. In collaboration with Behavior Development Solutions (BDS), the B. F. Skinner Foundation is glad to bring to the new generation this programmed instruction course, developed by Drs. Holland and Skinner, to teach basic terms and principles of behavior analysis. Originally designed for use in a mechanical teaching machine, early steps in the sequence prepare you for later, more advanced material. It takes the student through a carefully prepared sequence of steps and it brings textual responding under appropriate stimulus control. That is, rather than selecting a response, the learner types it (just as one does under natural stimulus conditions). No other online course fully embodies the methodology developed by Skinner. In addition to the free version, students of behavioral analysis can sign up for a 4-part, 24 CEUs course.

SKINNER'S QUOTE OF THE DAY

“Even when helpful, an observed or hypothetical inner determiner is no explanation of behavior until it has itself been explained, and the fascination with an inner life has allayed curiosity about the further steps to be taken.” (p. 77)

You Might Also Like

Reflections on Behaviorism and Society. Chapter 7: Can We Profit from Our Discovery of Behavioral Science? Quote 1

Upon Further Reflection. Chapter 7: Cognitive Science and Behaviorism. Quote 1

Upon Further Reflection. Chapter 9:How to Discover What You Have to Say: A Talk to Students. Quote 21