A comparative analysis of the general theories of modern behaviorism

Karl A. Minke

pp. 315-343

in: Arthur W. Staats, Leendert Mos (eds), Annals of theoretical psychology, Berlin, Springer, 1987

Abstract

It is argued that one type of activity that can help move psychology along the path toward unification is a comparative analysis of grand theories that have unification as a goal, an analysis focused on the theories' relative ability to provide unity within the science. This chapter is intended to serve as a model for such an analysis, comparing the two general behavioral theories of radical behaviorism and paradigmatic behaviorism on the substantive dimensions of fact, theory, and methodology. Several benefits of such a comparative analysis are noted, including, in the present case, further specification of how a science can progress toward unification through generational growth.