Section A-2

Unearthing the Bedrock of Scientific Inquiry with this Key Philosophical Assumption

What is the fundamental philosophical assumption of science? PTB co-founder Dana Meller dives into the crucial role of objective observation and measurement in shaping our understanding of behavior and how it forms the foundation of this evidence-based scientific field.

Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section A-2: Explain the philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis (e.g., selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, pragmatism).

Fact It to the Max: Philosophical Assumptions & Data-Driven Decisions

PTB co-founder Dana Meller discusses the potency of data-driven practices, objective observation, measurement, and experimentation in our scientific approach.

Dana Do’s: What’s the Difference Between Pragmatism and Determinism?

ABA terms you need to know: pragmatism vs. determinism

PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers a relatable cause-and-effect scenario that helps discriminate between determinism and pragmatism.

Dana Do’s: What Do Philosophical Assumptions Got To Do With It?

It often feels like the board is asking candidates to study concepts you may never use in practice. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains why that’s actually inaccurate. The philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis is so much more integral than just passing the big exam.