Radical Behaviorism and Libertarian Paternalism

A Comparative Epistemological Analysis

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31505/rbtcc.v23i1.1521

Keywords:

behavior analysis, radical behaviorism, epistemology, libertarian paternalism, behavioral economics

Abstract

Both radical behaviorists and libertarian paternalists propose that scientific knowledge about human behavior be used to modify cultural practices. However, Skinner's idea of ​​cultural planning has not achieved the same success that Thaler and Sustein's nudges have achieved in recent years. The purpose of this article is to make a comparison of these two proposals, having in mind, mainly, the epistemological conceptions underlying them. One of the main differences observed concerns the way in which the authors conceive the relationship between basic research and application. This factor seems to be relevant to explain the different levels of social impact obtained by each proposal, but they are not enough. It is also necessary to take into account that Thaler and Sustein's intervention model can produce effects in larger groups and with less effort than required by the type of intervention idealized by Skinner.

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Published

2022-12-19

How to Cite

Magalhães, T. de O. (2022). Radical Behaviorism and Libertarian Paternalism: A Comparative Epistemological Analysis. Brazilian Journal of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapy, 23(1), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.31505/rbtcc.v23i1.1521

Issue

Section

Special section: Behavior Analysis, Game theory and behavioral economics