Behavior Quote by B.F. Skinner
““We can achieve a sort of control under which the controlled, though they are following a code much more scrupulously than was ever the case under the old system, nevertheless feel free. They are doing what they want to do, not what they are forced to do. That's the source of the tremendous power of positive reinforcement-- there's no restraint and no revolt. By careful cultural design, we control not the final behavior, but the inclination to behave-- the motives, desires, the wishes.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on Behavioral Engineering, 1970s
Positive reinforcement can give people freedom while subtly shaping their motives, desires, and inclinations rather than imposing direct restraints.
In simple terms: Control through incentives lets people feel free while being guided.
Key Takeaway
Design environments that align incentives with desired outcomes.
Themes
psychology
behaviorism
control
motivation
freedom
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Workplace policy design
- education curriculum planning
- public health campaigns
- consumer behavior strategies
Key Concepts
Reinforcement theory
cultural engineering
intrinsic vs extrinsic motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do incentives shape personal values?
- When does subtle control become coercion?
A Different Perspective
May overlook individual autonomy and risk manipulation if incentives are misaligned.
![“The most effective alternative process [to punishment] is probably extinction. This takes time but is much more rapid than allowing the response to be forgotten. The technique seems to be relatively free of objectionable by-products. We recommend it, for example when we suggest that a parent 'pay…” quote by B.F. Skinner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fe3/b-f-skinner-2-27274_behavior_the-most-effective-alternative-process-t_416842.jpg)
