The Battle Of Behaviorism: An Exposition And An Exposure

by John B. Watson, William MacDougall

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

96 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2007

About the author

John Broadus Watson (January 9, 1878 – September 25, 1958) was an American psychologist who established the psychological school of behaviorism. Watson promoted a change in psychology through his address, Psychology as the Behaviorist Views it, which was given at Columbia University in 1913. Through his behaviorist approach, Watson conducted research on animal behavior, child rearing, and advertising. In addition, he conducted the controversial "Little Albert" experiment.

Reviews

[S · Rating 3 out of 5]

If I had not known about Skinner's lifework, and used some of the principles in my research and personal life, I would not give a second thought to Watson's behaviourism.

I couldn't stomach either side of the debate between Watson and McDougall; both harbouring extreme idealogies about the field of psychology. Watson was more professional in getting his point across whereas McDougall became very personal in his argument.

"If the fear element were dropped out of any religion, that religion would not survive a year" says Watson

I know there has been great advancements in the field of behaviourism so I swallowed this argument with a grain of salt.

Please do not read this if you are new to Psychology or a recent traveller to the waters of the behaviourism.