TORONTO, May 8, 2009 -- A York University professor’s new book, released today, takes an in-depth look at the life and work of influential American psychologist B.F. Skinner.
Beyond the Box: B.F. Skinner’s Technology of Behavior from Laboratory to Life, 1950s-1970s, is the first full-length study of the ways in which Skinner's ideas transcended the laboratory and became ingrained in the post-war public’s everyday lives.
"Skinner’s work has a remarkable legacy,” says author Alexandra Rutherford, an Associate Professor in York’s Department of Psychology. “The principles he developed are in use today throughout America and around the world."
B.F. Skinner (1904-1990) is one of the most prominent figures in twentieth century psychology. A best-selling author, inventor and social commentator, he was known for his innovative methods and controversial theories. Among these was his invention of the air crib, featured prominently on the cover of Beyond the Box. The invention, an easily-cleaned, temperature and humidity-controlled box, was designed to improve upon the traditional crib, while easing the burdens associated with childcare.
Rutherford uses extensive archival material and case studies to profile Skinner and his followers’ “technology of human behavior,” as it became known during the post-war scientific and technological revolution.
Beyond the Box examines the Skinnerians’ creation of human behavior laboratories, as well as management programs for juvenile delinquents, psychiatric wards, and prisons. The volume details their influence on the self-help industry, with popular books on how to quit smoking, lose weight, and become more assertive.
"I really wanted to delve into the ways in which Skinner and his acolytes integrated their theories into Americans’ lives," says Rutherford. "This book is essentially a look at how his behavioral theories met – and continue to meet – real-life challenges. It analyzes both the enthusiasm and caution with which these efforts were received."
Beyond the Box is published by University of Toronto Press.
York University is the leading interdisciplinary research and teaching university in Canada. York offers a modern, academic experience at the undergraduate and graduate level in Toronto, Canada’s most international city. The third largest university in the country, York is host to a dynamic academic community of 50,000 students and 7,000 faculty and staff, as well as more than 200,000 alumni worldwide. York’s 11 faculties and 26 research centres conduct ambitious, groundbreaking research that is interdisciplinary, cutting across traditional academic boundaries. This distinctive and collaborative approach is preparing students for the future and bringing fresh insights and solutions to real-world challenges. York University is an autonomous, not-for-profit corporation.
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Media contact:
Melissa Hughes
York University Media Relations
416 736 2100 x22097
