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The Relevance of Metaphysics to Behavior Analysis
1School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland UK.
Perspectives on Behavior Science
|May 17, 2021
Summary
Behavior analysis, a natural science approach, can advance by examining implicit assumptions. Revisiting metaphysical underpinnings can improve engagement with other psychological fields and resolve debates on private events.
Area of Science:
- * Behavior analysis
- * Philosophy of science
Background:
- * Behavior analysis employs a natural science approach to behavior.
- * Implicit metaphysical assumptions, influenced by naturalism and realism, may hinder progress.
- * Existing assumptions can be critically examined to foster advancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To identify and analyze implicit metaphysical assumptions within behavior analysis.
- * To explore alternative philosophical frameworks that align with behavior analysis.
- * To enhance behavior analysis's integration with other psychological disciplines.
Main Methods:
- * Philosophical analysis of naturalism, realism, and pragmatism in behavior analysis.
- * Examination of historical philosophical traditions (Hume, Rorty, Wittgenstein, James).
- * Discussion of metaphysical alternatives like historicism and monism.
Main Results:
- * Implicit naturalism in behavior analysis may inadvertently support dualism.
- * Alternative philosophical positions (Rorty's historicism, Wittgenstein's hinge statements, James's neutral monism) can avoid dualism.
- * Revising metaphysical assumptions can facilitate interdisciplinary engagement.
Conclusions:
- * Examining and revising metaphysical assumptions is crucial for behavior analysis progress.
- * Adopting alternative frameworks can strengthen links with cognitive and ecological psychology.
- * This philosophical revision can help transcend debates on private events and representationalism.
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