46 pages • 1 hour read
Beyond Freedom and Dignity
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Book Brief
240
Book • Nonfiction
1970s
1971
Adult
18+ years
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 The book contains outdated and offensive language and beliefs.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
2,576 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
2,576 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sigmund Freud
Sigmund Freud
A significant historical figure in psychology whose concepts of psychodynamics and psychoanalysis are referenced by Skinner to argue for the deterministic nature of behavior.
Ivan Pavlov
Ivan Pavlov
A Russian physiologist known for his work on conditioned responses, whose experiments with canine conditioning are mentioned to highlight ideas about reflexes and punishment.
Joseph Wood Krutch
Joseph Wood Krutch
An American writer and critic who challenges Skinner's ideas, prompting Skinner to respond to his criticisms directly within his work through quoted excerpts.
240
Book • Nonfiction
1970s
1971
Adult
18+ years
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