B. F. Skinner

Date of Birth: March 20, 1904

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: August 18, 1990

Biography

Burrhus Frederic Skinner, known as B. F. Skinner, was an influential American psychologist, behaviorist, author, inventor, and social philosopher. Born on March 20, 1904, in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, Skinner became one of the most prominent figures in the field of psychology, particularly in the domain of behaviorism. He earned his Ph.D. in psychology from Harvard University in 1931 and later joined the faculty, where he spent the bulk of his academic career. Skinner is best known for his work on operant conditioning, a method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior. He developed the Skinner Box, a controlled environment for studying operant conditioning with lab animals, which became a foundational tool in behavioral research. His theories emphasized the importance of external observable behavior over internal mental states, challenging the prevailing cognitive and psychoanalytic approaches of his time. In addition to his experimental work, Skinner wrote several influential books, including “Walden Two,” a novel about a utopian society based on behavioral principles, and “Beyond Freedom and Dignity,” which argued against the notion of free will. His ideas have had a lasting impact on education, mental health treatment, and even animal training.

5 Interesting Facts about B. F. Skinner

1. B. F. Skinner created the “Air Crib,” a climate-controlled environment designed to keep babies safe and comfortable, although it was often misunderstood as a form of child abuse.

2. He was awarded the National Medal of Science in 1968 for his contributions to the field of psychology.

3. Skinner was a prolific writer, publishing over 200 articles and more than 20 books during his lifetime.

4. He was a strong advocate for social engineering and believed that behavior could be shaped to create a better society.

5. Skinner was also an inventor, and his innovations extended beyond psychology, including a teaching machine designed to improve education through programmed learning.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from B. F. Skinner

1. “The real problem is not whether machines think but whether men do.”

2. “Education is what survives when what has been learned has been forgotten.”

3. “A failure is not always a mistake; it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.”

4. “The consequences of an act affect the probability of its occurring again.”

5. “Society attacks early, when the individual is helpless.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, B. F. Skinner’s net worth was estimated to be around $2 million, primarily from his academic salary, book royalties, and speaking engagements.

Children

B. F. Skinner had two daughters with his wife, Yvonne Blue: Julie Vargus and Deborah Buzan. Both of his children have spoken publicly about their father, often clarifying misconceptions about his personal life and parenting methods.