BEHAVIORISM
18 January 2005
Behaviorism is an example of a materialistic view of the universe, especially in regard to human behavior. It is based on the myth that science can explain everything and solve all human problems.
I. Basic Concepts
  1. All behavior is learned.
  2. All behavior is measurable.
  3. Behavior can be modified.
  4. Behavior is a result of the environment.
  5. Human beings are passive-reactive creatures.
  6. Behavior without reinforcement becomes extinct.
II. How would you explain the following?
  1. A very generous person.
  2. One who cannot type well.
  3. Someone who tells lies.
  4. A guy that beats up his girlfriends.
III. How would you change each of those behaviors?
Evaluation:
  1. What are the advantages of believing in materialism? When does materialism break down as a system?
  2. What are the origins of humanism? When would it break down?