About Behaviorism Mass Market Paperback – 12 Feb. 1976

B. F. Skinner's "About Behaviourism" is a major contribution to the philosophical and theoretical understanding of psychology. Skinner sought, in this book, to present an overview of Behaviourism - outlining its key themes and premises, while highlighting ideas wrongly associated with this school of thought. The book was first published in 1974 - and is, in many ways, a culmination of Skinner's arguments as advanced throughout his career. It brings together - in a highly readable manner - the central tenets made in his previous publications (such as 'Science and Human Behaviour' (1953), 'Verbal Behavior' (1957), and 'Beyond Freedom and Dignity' (1971)). Yet in this particular work, Skinner also aims to clarify the Behaviourist position more generally - commenting on the weaknesses and limitations of earlier theorists, such as John Watson (founder of Behaviourism).The book is written with a popular readership intended, and as such it's not overly academic in presentation. It can be understood by someone who's new to psychology - and is intended to be insightful and engaging. It is, in all essentials, a book that takes as its purpose the task of explaining the reasons why this theoretical position is correct - and how, if applied, it would revolutionise the organisation of society (creating a more peaceful way of life, based on cooperative social existence). Skinner explores several topics, including: the causes of behaviour, operant conditioning, thinking, motivations and emotions, and issues of control.This book was highly influential when it was originally published, and shaped debate within psychology for many years. The main argument advanced by Skinner is that the notion of human 'free will' is an illusion, and that behaviour is dependent on the consequences of previous behaviours. If the consequences are negative, the likelihood is that the action will not be repeated; whereas if the consequences are positive, it is more probable that the action will be repeated. As such, human behaviour is conditioned - the outcome of a lifetime of reinforcement. Given the importance of Skinner's work, he is recognised as one of the most influential psychologists of the 20th century.Of course, the book received a great deal of criticism. And the behaviourist school of psychology - although influential - has never dominated the field (rather, schools of thought focussing on the Mind have tended to be hegemonic). Notwithstanding the criticisms this book received, it remains highly fascinating - and is an enjoyable read. If you're interested in psychology, I recommend it.

Indispensable for any real understanding of modern psychology. Not the final word by any stretch, but this book should be on your reading list for the field.

This book offers a challenging alternative to what many will believe without question; that is, that we are free souls with inner agents and thoughts that guide our behaviour. This fine introduction to the behaviorist position offers the opposite view. It states, very simply, that behavioural responses are learnt through interaction with environmental stimuli and that behaviour is determined and not free at all. Skinner also attempts to address some of the commonly held myths surrounding the philosophy of behaviorism such as there is no place for the self or that thinking should be disregarded. As a radical behaviorist Skinner simply states that thinking is internalised behavior shaped by the same contingencies of reinforcement as other learnt responses. Now that's something interesting to think about!

Skinner's "About Behaviourism" is a fascinating introduction to a philosophy/ideology so misrepresented in the media and textbooks alike.People tend to muddle up Watson's and Pavlov' early behaviour (called methodological behaviourism here) and Skinner's more sophisticated radical version of the 1940s and 1950s. They also seem to believe that Chomsky had rebutted Skinner- but nothing could be further from the truth.The book begins with 20 criticisms of radical behaviourism. These are addressed throughout the books and rebutted in summary form in the very last chapter.Skinner is a very powerful and convincing writer. His style is succinct and pithy. To me, it's like the best prose. I just can't stop reading this book.

I find the subject quite interesting, but I think the author was trying to use too many unecessary long words. By the third chapter I thought I was reading a Dictionary.

The theories and methods are all very dated now, but for a historical outlook on modern psychology, this is a must.

An incredible account of behaviourism that addresses historical misconceptions and describes the achievements and enormous potential that the science has for us humans. Relavent, far reaching and wonderful writings by Skinner.

Fascinating insight into behaviour by B G Skinner. Skinner's famous researched into behaviour, by using his famous Skinner Box to see if conditioning animals could also be done on humans, is a must read. Anyone studying Psychology or starting out would find the book fascinating and a great help.