Philosophy and Psychology - Josh Naqvi

     I much enjoyed Skinner's book. I enjoyed it mainly for three reasons. The first reason is that he begins with the contradictions on page one. Starting with the possible objections is a great way to start a discussion in my opinion because then the critic is unable to tear the argument apart as easily. This is a method similar to the "Dialectic Method" by St. Thomas Aquinas. Aquinas would use this method often times when writing, he would list the potential contradictions first and then use them as a means to eventually prove his points. Skinner took a play out of the realm of philosophy. Several plays, if one analyzes what he says on pages 2-4. The usage of philosophy is reason two of why I enjoyed the read. On page 3, Skinner starts the second paragraph with a question,"Why do people behave as they do"? He then explains how the question has changed but remains the same in many senses. This is also a philosophical approach. He does not just initially give his opinion, but instead poses the question first. This keeps his writing interesting and allows it to be easily pondered. So far in the other psychology readings, this has been more difficult. 

    The third reason I enjoyed the reading is that Skinner's theory or point, if you will, is reasonable. On pages 6 and 7, he contributes some behaviors to the environment. The environment is not just meaning our ecological environment, however I suppose that could be attributed as well. The environment he is referring to is also that of one's home life. Skinner essentially says that how and where someone grows up can and will have an affect on their behaviors. The way to help these behaviors change in a positive light is to define and attribute what factors cause them. I found this to be reasonable and not too disturbing nor strange. 

    Finally, I think Skinner's work is highly applicable. The methods he describes on pages 3-5 utilize logic well. They also utilize philosophy. The big questions as to how, what, and why are examined. Then steps are taken to try and address the underlying issues. Not just the feelings or results are viewed but the factors that form the unwanted behavior are addressed. Nearly all the methods use this formula, or at least certain aspects of it. So, they are in my opinion somewhat interchangeable and could be used when needed. I think this is a brilliant form of treatment due to this interchangeably.  It also has the potential to be made tailor-made to suit one's individual needs in therapy. 

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