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Skinner's verbal behavior, Chomsky's review, and mentalism
1Department of Philosophy, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel.
Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior
|November 1, 1990
Summary
This study demonstrates that grammar and syntax acquisition can be explained using behavior-analytic principles. It argues against the necessity of mentalist or cognitivist explanations for language learning.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Linguistics
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- B.F. Skinner's "Verbal Behavior" (1957) comprehensively addresses verbal behavior.
- The theory's explanation of grammatical behavior learning has faced significant criticism, notably from Noam Chomsky (1959).
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate that grammar and syntax acquisition are adequately explainable within a behavior-analytic framework.
- To assert that mentalist or cognitivist perspectives are unnecessary for understanding language learning.
Main Methods:
- Behavioral analysis
- Theoretical argumentation
- Literature review
Main Results:
- The learning of grammar and syntax can be adequately explained through behavior-analytic principles.
- Mentalist or cognitivist additions to behaviorist theories are not required to account for grammatical behavior.
Conclusions:
- Behaviorism provides a sufficient framework for understanding the acquisition of grammar and syntax.
- Challenges to Skinner's theory regarding grammar learning can be addressed within a behavior-analytic perspective without resorting to mentalism.