B. F. Skinner, born Burrhus Frederic Skinner on March 20, 1904, in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, was an influential American psychologist, behaviorist, author, inventor, and social philosopher. He is best known for his contributions to the field of behaviorism, particularly through his development of the theory of operant conditioning.
Skinner's early life was marked by a keen interest in gadgets and building things, which foreshadowed his later career in experimental psychology. He attended Hamilton College where he initially pursued a degree in English literature. However, after graduating, Skinner found himself dissatisfied with the literary world and turned his attention to psychology, enrolling at Harvard University for graduate studies in 1928.
At Harvard, Skinner worked under the influence of John B. Watson, the founder of behaviorism. Skinner's primary contribution was the formulation of operant conditioning, a method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior. This theory differed from classical conditioning, developed by Ivan Pavlov, in that it focused on the consequences of voluntary behavior rather than the pairing of stimuli.
Skinner's work had profound implications for education, psychology, and behavioral therapy. His theories were controversial, especially his views on human freedom and dignity, as he argued that behavior could be scientifically controlled. This led to debates on free will versus determinism. His work has influenced:
Skinner continued his research and writing until his death on August 18, 1990. His later years were spent at Harvard, where he held the title of Edgar Pierce Professor of Psychology. His influence extended beyond academia, impacting public policy, child-rearing practices, and even architectural design.