Now that you have read Chapter 1, you should have a clear understanding of the scientific and philosophical foundations of applied behavior analysis. One of the major assumptions of science is that the universe is a lawful and orderly place in which all phenomena occur as a result of some event.
In your original post, describe the philosophical position of determinism while considering the practical consequences of assuming both positions of determinism and free will. Conclude by identifying why behavior analysts must subscribe to the assumption of determinism.
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Determinism is a philosophical position that asserts that all events and phenomena in the universe are caused by prior events and conditions. It suggests that every action or behavior has a specific cause or set of causes that can be identified and understood. According to determinism, there is no randomness or arbitrary behavior, and everything that occurs is a result of a chain of causality.
On the other hand, free will is the belief that individuals have the ability to make choices and decisions independently, regardless of any prior causes or influences. It implies that human behavior is not bound by predictable laws of causality but rather stems from personal agency and volition.
Assuming the position of determinism has several practical consequences. Firstly, it implies that events are predictable and can be studied scientifically. By identifying the causes of behavior, it becomes possible to understand and even manipulate it. This knowledge can be applied in a variety of fields, such as psychology, education, and therapy, to bring about desired changes in behavior.
In contrast, assuming free will leads to the belief that behaviors are not bound by any identifiable causes, making them unpredictable and challenging to study systematically. This perspective suggests that behavior cannot be influenced or changed by analyzing its causes, as it is driven solely by the individual's autonomous decisions.
Behavior analysts must subscribe to the assumption of determinism because it forms the foundation of applied behavior analysis (ABA). ABA is a scientific approach that aims to understand and modify human behavior by identifying the functional relationship between environmental events and behavior. By assuming determinism, behavior analysts can pinpoint the environmental factors that contribute to specific behaviors and develop effective interventions based on this knowledge.
If behavior analysts were to assume free will, they would not be able to systematically analyze behavior or develop interventions that are scientifically based. The assumption of determinism allows them to investigate and understand the causes and consequences that influence behavior, leading to more effective and evidence-based practices in behavior change.
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