World Behavior Analysis Day Podcast with Dr. William Baum

We welcome Dr. William M. Baum to the World Behavior Analysis Day podcast! Dr. Baum has made significant contributions to the field of behavior analysis. He has authored numerous influential journal articles covering a wide array of topics, from laboratory research to philosophical explorations. Two of his most widely cited papers are (1) the empirical and theoretical analysis of choice behavior, which he authored with Rachlin (1969 and 1974). In addition, he has written general philosophical works on behaviorism, focusing on biology and evolution. A consistent contributor to ABAI conventions, he has published 64 quality papers and is an invited presenter for the 2024 Association for Behavior Analysis International. 

In this insightful conversation, we explore the concepts of molar and molecular behavior, discuss some of his memories of  B.F. Skinner, and dive into Dr. Baum's latest book, "Introduction to Behaviorism: An Evolutionary Perspective." We also touch upon how Eastern philosophies have influenced his perspective on behaviorism. Don't miss this enlightening episode with one of the leading figures in the field.

Show Notes/Links:

Dr. Baum’s Texts Referenced in the Podcast:

Understanding Behaviorism: Behavior, Culture, and Evolution 3rd Edition: https://rb.gy/yrgpwq

Introduction to Behavior: An Evolutionary Perspective 1st Edition: https://www.amazon.com/Introduction-Behavior-Evolutionary-William-Baum/dp/1394184611

Science and Philosophy of Behavior: Selected Papers 1st Edition, Kindle Edition: https://rb.gy/st1s35

Selected Papers:

From Molecular to Molar: A Paradigm Shift  in Behavior Analysis:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1284889/pdf/12144313.pdf

Behaviorism, Private Events, and the Molar View of Behavior:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3211378/

Rethinking Reinforcement: Allocation, Induction, and Contingency:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3266735/

Radical Behaviorism and the Concept of Agency: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/William-Baum/publication/233815151_Radical_Behaviorism_and_the_Concept_of_Agency/links/09e4150bd58048e2a5000000/Radical-Behaviorism-and-the-Concept-of-Agency.pdf

ABAI 2024 Events for Dr. Baum:

Invited Paper Session#66: Induction Versus Reinforcement and the Molar View of Behavior: 5/25/24: 4PM- 4:50PM

Special Event: #209 A: The Development of Behavior Science: 5/26/24; 9AM-11:50 AM

Panel #355: Significance of Evolutionary Theory and Cultural Design: Advancing Science and Practice of Behavior Analysis: 5/26/24: 6PM- 6:50PM