Shaping Of Behaviour, The

Description:
As the world faces up to the challenges of climate change and the threat to security, Skinner's contributions on these issues continue to resonate today. In this stimulating introduction for students and general readers, Toates places Skinner's ideas within the context of mainstream psychological thought, presenting a balanced synthesis of the psychologist's work and his approach. The author reveals the links between Skinner's perspective and other branches of psychology, highlighting his solutions to problems at individual, society and global levels.

Review:
'This is a remarkably thoughtful and illuminating account of this major figure in psychology. From the direct formation of radical behaviorism to the opposing emergence of cognitive psychology as a reaction, Skinner's views had enormous impact on psychology in the 20th century. In Toates' sympathetic hands this unique life and career comes alive, together with implications for larger themes that persist today.' - Kent Berridge, Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan, USA 'Fred Toates offers a well-written exposition of the various controversies and contributions of B.F. Skinner arguing that Skinner's influence is comparable to that of Copernicus and Darwin. Even after his death, Skinner's writings and ideas challenge the dominant paradigm, and continue to offer important insights into the psychological basis and potential solutions for environmental and societal ills.' - Susan M. Koger, Professor of Psychology, Willamette University, USA, and co-author of The Psychology of Environmental Problems 'I especially enjoyed Toates's discussion of aspects of Skinner that are usually ignored, such as religion and international relations. The book is an interesting and very readable mixture of theoretical discussions, biographical details, and examples of the application of Skinner's methods... I recommend this book to anyone who wants, in an accessible and sometimes entertaining way, to learn about some of the best ideas any psychologist has had about how we might move towards more sustainable and peaceful living. Philosophical and theoretical discussions of Skinner's legacy will continue, but the practical value of his work is undeniable and this book presents his views in a way that is open to everyone.' - John Scull, PhD

Table of Contents:
Who was B.F. Skinner? Biography, Background and Impact Looking at the Evidence Linking Skinner to Other Perspectives on Behaviour The Relationship with Biology Determinism, Freedom and Autonomy Skinnerian Advice for Living Life Social Policy Development and Education Helping to Ease Human Suffering Ethics, Religion and the Skinnerian Good Life The Environment and a Sustainable Future Conclusions

Author Biography:
FREDERICK TOATES is Professor of Biological Psychology at the Open University. In addition to publishing widely in peer-reviewed journals, Fred has contributed materials to several Open University course texts and is also author of Biological Psychology (Pearson Education).