Behavior Analysis and Mechanism: One Is Not the Other

摘要: Behavior analysts have been called mechanists, and behavior analysis is said to be mechanistic; that is, they are claimed aligned with the philosophy of mechanism. What this means analyzed by (a) examining standard specialized dictionary encyclopedia definitions descriptions mechanism its cognates (b) reviewing contemporary representations mechanistic worldview in literature on psychology. Although term sometimes an honorific (e.g., “natural science”), their meanings, usages, functions society, science, psychology, do not aptly characterize discipline. These terms mischaracterize how conceptualize subjects individuals whom work own as scientists. Discussion interwoven throughout about nature science.