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46 pages 1 hour read

Beyond Freedom and Dignity

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1971

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Book Brief

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B. F. Skinner

Beyond Freedom and Dignity

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1971
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1970s

Publication Year

1971

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Beyond Freedom and Dignity by B. F. Skinner, the author argues that human behavior is determined by environmental and physiological factors, proposing a technology of behavior to address social issues like overpopulation and violence by scientifically modifying behavior. He critiques concepts of freedom and dignity as obstacles to this approach and suggests that society should be redesigned through positive reinforcement rather than punishment. The book contains outdated and offensive language and beliefs.

Informative

Challenging

Contemplative

Unnerving

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.1

2,576 ratings

64%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

B. F. Skinner's Beyond Freedom and Dignity sparks both admiration and criticism. Praised for its thought-provoking insights on behaviorism and the potential of scientific control to improve society, it is also criticized for its perceived reductionism and dismissal of free will. The book remains influential but controversial in its challenge to traditional human values.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Beyond Freedom and Dignity?

A reader who enjoys Beyond Freedom and Dignity by B. F. Skinner is likely interested in psychology, behaviorism, and theories of human behavior. Comparable works include Skinner's own Walden Two and Viktor E. Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning. Ideal for those curious about the influence of environment over free will.

4.1

2,576 ratings

64%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1970s

Publication Year

1971

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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