Biography · American behaviorist

2 min read · 384 words

B. F. Skinner

1904 · 1990

Years lived
86
Photos
25
B. F. Skinner portrait

Born

March 20, 1904

Susquehanna Depot, United States

Died

August 18, 1990

Cambridge, United States

Known for

American behaviorist

B. F. Skinner (1904–1990) was United States best known for American behaviorist.

Burrhus Frederic Skinner (March 20, 1904 – August 18, 1990) was an American psychologist and behaviorist. He pioneered the experimental analysis of behavior and developed operant conditioning. His ideas shaped educational and therapeutic methods, leaving a lasting impact on psychology.

A life in moments

The moments that shaped a life

Written in English

Chapter

Life chapters

Chapter 1 · 1904· Chapter 1 of 7

Early Life and Origins

B. F. Skinner was born on March 20, 1904, in Susquehanna Depot, United States. He grew up in a family environment that encouraged creativity and independent thinking. These early experiences likely influenced his later approaches to problem-solving and experimental design.

Chapter 2 · 1948· Chapter 2 of 7

Career Beginnings

Skinner began his distinguished academic career, eventually becoming the Edgar Pierce Professor of Psychology at Harvard University. He assumed this esteemed position in 1948, marking a significant phase in his professional development. His early work at Harvard began to formalize his experimental analysis of behavior.

Chapter 3· Chapter 3 of 7

Major Achievements and Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Skinner was known for his rigorous experimental methods and theoretical contributions to psychology. He received awards for distinguished scientific contributions, highlighting his standing in the field. His extensive body of work includes 268 papers and an h-index of 72, reflecting the broad impact of his research.

Chapter 4· Chapter 4 of 7

Personal Life

The provided information does not include specific details about B. F. Skinner's personal life, such as family or relationships. His public life was primarily focused on his academic pursuits and contributions to psychology.

Chapter 5 · 2016· Chapter 5 of 7

Notable Works or Contributions

Skinner authored several highly influential works that shaped psychological thought. "The Behavior of Organisms: An Experimental Analysis," published in 2016, garnered 2088 citations, demonstrating its lasting academic relevance. Another significant text, "THE EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS OF BEHAVIOR," from 2016, received 404 citations.

His published works also include "Operant Behavior" (2021, 335 citations) and the thought-provoking "Beyond Freedom and Dignity" (2016, 2 citations). Other significant titles include "Walden Two," a fictional portrayal of a utopian community, and practical applications like "Teaching machines." His bibliography also features "SCIENCE AND HUMAN BEHAVIOR" and "About Behaviourism," both essential texts in his field.

Chapter 6 · 1974· Chapter 6 of 7

Later Years

B. F. Skinner retired from his professorship at Harvard University in 1974. Despite his retirement, he continued to write and remained active in the intellectual discourse surrounding psychology. He passed away on August 18, 1990, in Cambridge, United States, leaving behind a rich legacy of ideas.

Chapter 7· Chapter 7 of 7

Legacy and Impact

Skinner's work fundamentally altered the study of psychology, particularly through his development of operant conditioning. His theories and experimental approaches influenced not only academic research but also practical fields like education and therapy. His writings continue to be studied and discussed, maintaining their relevance in the understanding of human and animal behavior.

FAQ

Frequently asked

  • When did B. F. Skinner die?

    B. F. Skinner died on August 18, 1990 in Cambridge, United States, at the age of 86.

  • Where was B. F. Skinner born?

    B. F. Skinner was born in Susquehanna Depot, United States on March 20, 1904.

  • What is B. F. Skinner best known for?

    B. F. Skinner is best known for American behaviorist.

  • How old was B. F. Skinner when they died?

    B. F. Skinner was 86 years old at the time of death.

  • What nationality was B. F. Skinner?

    B. F. Skinner was from United States.

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