Psychology Discussion Questions

Behaviorism versus The Cognitive Revolution

In his article "The Origins of Cognitive Thought," B. F. Skinner makes the following derisive comment about the rise of cognitive psychology and cognitive science beginning in the 1950s:

The battle cry of the cognitive revolution is 'Mind is back!' A 'great new science of mind' is born. Behaviorism nearly destroyed our concern for it, but behaviorism has been overthrown, and we can take up again where philosophers and early psychologists left off (p. 17).

Have advances in cognitive psychology and cognitive science truly overthrown behaviorism? What applications are there today for behaviorism? What evidence do you have to support your position?

Please answer the discussion question by completing the following:

1. Refer to and integrate ideas presented in the text and any supplemental readings.
2. Cite outside resources if necessary to make your point.
3. Follow APA style guidelines for citations and references.

You will be evaluated on how well you can demonstrate that you understand the ideas presented throughout the unit, including assigned readings, discussions, and independent investigations. You will also be evaluated on the quality of your work: its academic rigor, how well it shows your ability to think critically, and how completely it covers the questions asked.