Abstract
Based on recent discussions about the definition of behavior and the selection by consequences approach conducted by Brazilian researchers, this essay discusses the need for greater participation of the contributions from experimental behavior analysis this debate and more interaction of the field with other systems in Psychology. The paper criticizes its isolation with respect to knowledge production in other areas and the adoption of authority figures from which novelties in the field can be evaluated. Hence, Skinner’s model of selection by consequences must be analyzed in context for a clear understanding of its most important contributions to Psychology. The essay argues that discussions on the operant-responder distinction and about metacontingencies are examples of conceptual revision based on data and articulation between areas of research with different epistemologies and methodologies.
Keywords:
behavior analysis; science; psychology; selection by consequences; isolation