Article
Science, skepticism, and applied behavior analysis
Behavior Analysis in Practice
Document Type
Article
Department
Psychology
DOI
10.1007/BF03391727
Publication Date
12-1-2008
Disciplines
Abstract
Pseudoscientific claims concerning medical and psychological treatments of all varieties are commonplace. As behavior analysts, a sound skeptical approach to our science and practice is essential. The present paper offers an overview of science and skepticism and discusses the relationship of skepticism to behavior analysis, with an emphasis on the types of issues concerning behavior analysts in practice.
Comments
I would like to acknowledge the writings of Richard Dawkins, Carl Sagan, and Michael Shermer as primary influences on the present paper. Wherever possible, I cite directly the sources from which specific material is drawn. However, the overall content of the paper cannot be meaningfully disentangled from my extensive history of reading the work of these three authors. I also would like to acknowledge the insightful comments of the reviewers of this manuscript. Their comments were especially useful and contributed to a greatly improved paper.
Citation Information
Matthew P. Normand. "Science, skepticism, and applied behavior analysis" Behavior Analysis in Practice Vol. 1 Iss. 2 (2008) p. 42 - 49 ISSN: 1998-1929 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/matthew-normand/182/