"Beyond Freedom and Dignity"

Paper Summary:

The paper describes how in 1971, Skinner wrote "Beyond Freedom and Dignity" as an answer to the problems of the modern world, including crime, poverty, violence, pollution and overpopulation. Skinner argues that the classic theories of freedom and dignity are outdated and no longer apply to the "modern scientific understanding of man." Skinner asserts that humans are essentially animals that could be controlled by using his previously discovered and published observations about the domination of animals. The paper stresses that "Beyond Freedom and Dignity" goes far beyond psychology and enters into sociology, philosophy and politics. The paper contends that if viewed within these parameters, it is a work of value for generations to come.

Outline:
Abstract
A Synopsis of "Beyond Freedom and Dignity"
Skinner's Concept of "Freedom"
Skinner's Concept of "Dignity"
Conclusions

From the Paper:

"A most interesting theory that Skinner puts forth in the book is the idea that, based upon his earlier research into animal motivation and control, that humans are essentially animals that could be controlled by using his previously discovered and published observations about the domination of animals through motivation and deprivation, subject to the same laws of stimulus-response that he observed in his "rat boxes", or what has come to be known as "Skinner Boxes" in psychological circles (Todd & Morris, 1995) . In the book, Skinner denies the existence of a "human mind", personal responsibility and any type of "inner personality" (Skinner, 1971). To him, free will, thoughts, and emotions only "seem" to exist."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Funder, D. C. (2001). Personality. 197.
• Todd, J. T. & Morris, E. K. (Eds.). (1995). Modern Perspectives on B.F. Skinner and Contemporary Behaviorism. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press.
• Skinner, B.F. (1971). Beyond Freedom and Dignity. New York: Knopf Publishers.
• Skinner, B.F. (1976). About Behaviorism. Chicago: Vintage Books.

More papers on "Beyond Freedom and Dignity":

• Analytical Essay # 17334 : "Beyond Freedom and Dignity" by B. F. Skinner"
• Essay # 40395 : "Freedom and Determinism"
• Book Review # 44977 : "What is Man?"

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