Monday, February 13, 2012

Ivan Pavlov


"Some of you may wonder why his work is so important when his thesis is only based on an experiment with a dog. But you have to put in mind that subsequent studies have found out that the principle made with the dog is applicable to all types of species including us, human beings. Through Pavlov's legacy we were able to find out that a process such as learning can be studied objectively."  (Par. 1)


B.F. Skinner


B.F. Skinner was known as one of the most arguable intellectual figure in the late twentieth century. Skinner's most controversial theory states that external influences shape behavior, not internal thoughts and feelings. Also, Skinner brought much criticism due to his ways of thinking toward other people's personal freedom and dignity. He believed none of these were necessary in order to help or manage people more effectively. (http://theneuron.wetpaint.com/page/Skinner's+Legacy)