Cartesian dualism and behavior analysis

Authors

  • Isaías Pessoti (in memorian)
  • João Eduardo Cattani Vilares

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18761/PAC11818audp

Keywords:

Behavior Analysis, cartesian dualism, Radical Behaviorism, mentalism, monism

Abstract

The incompatibility between radical behaviorism (monistic) and dualism (mind-body) is notorious. The work of René Descartes (1596-1650) – Cartesianism – has been associated with mind-body dualism. This assumption possibly derives from Descartes’ use, throughout his work, of words such as “mind”, “spirit” and “soul”. There are assertions about such incompatibility in Baum’s manual of radical behaviorism (1999/1994). This article presents an analysis of Descartes original writings, presenting results that did not demonstrate a priori the incompatibility pointed out by radical behaviorists, such as Baum. For Descartes, “mind” is not an immaterial entity, or a “homunculus” author of ideas, or an archive of knowledge and experiences, but only the ability to learn to think (behave). The author describes the relationship mind-body as inseparable.

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Published

2024-08-26

How to Cite

Pessoti (in memorian), I. ., & Vilares, J. E. C. (2024). Cartesian dualism and behavior analysis. Perspectivas Em Análise Do Comportamento, 15(1), 149–155. https://doi.org/10.18761/PAC11818audp

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Section

Homenagem ao Professor Isaías Pessotti