Abstract
Abstract. B.F. Skinner allures us with the possibilities of turning the stones of materialistic rewards into the bread of human values. He tempts us by assuring success in achieving our goals through behavioral science, if only we give up our autonomy. He offers the power of complete control over our behaviors, on condition that we relinquish responsibility for our lives to a technological elite. Is B. F. Skinner a flesh‐and‐blood Grand Inquisitor? This essay tries to persuade the reader that Skinner's offers are worth considering.
Keywords
freedom, B.F. Skinner, Grand Inquisitor, values, science and technology of behavior, science of values
How to Cite
Rottschaefer, W., (1995) “B.F. SKINNER AND THE GRAND INQUISITOR”, Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science 30(3), 407–433. doi: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9744.1995.tb00081.x