Behaviorism Quote by B. F. Skinner
“Give me a child and I'll shape him into anything.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Beyond Freedom and Dignity, B. F. Skinner, 1971
A claim that environment can shape a child into any desired outcome.
In simple terms: Environment determines a child's development.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the power of shaping influences.
Themes
education
behavior
control
potential
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- parenting
- teaching
- training
- rehabilitation
Key Concepts
behaviorism
environmental determinism
Questions to Reflect On
- What role do genetics play in development?
- How can we balance guidance with autonomy?
A Different Perspective
Ignores innate traits and agency.
![“Some have said that the thesis [of indeterminacy] is a consequence of my behaviorism. Some have said that it is a reductio ad absurdum of my behaviorism. I disagree with this second point, but I agree with the first. I hold further that the behaviorism approach is mandatory. In psychology one may…” quote by Willard Van Orman Quine](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3e0/willard-van-orman-quine-10137_ads_some-have-said-that-the-thesis-of-indete_315688.jpg)
