The famous behavioral psychologist John B. Watson once said:
"Give me a dozen healthy infants, well-formed, and my own specified world to bring them up in, and I'll guarantee to take any one--at random and train him to become any type of specialist I might select: doctor, lawyer, artist, merchant-chief and, yes, even beggar-man and thief, regardless of his talents, penchants, tendencies, abilities, vocations and race of his ancestors."
Is such a thing hypothetically possible? If so, how could it be done?
Watson seems to be saying that nature has no place in our development -- that it's all nurture. Most experts believe that our personality and talents are shaped by both our heredity and our experiences.
It's hard to believe that Watson's proposal is possible.
You have left out the last sentence of Watson's statement, but it is often done. Watson developed the S-R explaination for behavior, which later , under Kochs, and then Skinner, worked into the S-0-R model.
We all learn from experience, spaced over time. Some of us learn faster than others, using less repetitions, and some of us take more. Some of us learn to use inference based on experience. Watson was a pioneer in understanding the brain, and its influence on behavior. But the brain itself is based on genetics, the idea for which neuroscience based that on was many years after Watson.
Within the range of restrictions of genetics (nature), our nurture determines our development. As the two previous tutors have indicated, the best explanation for our development and behavior is an interaction of these factors.
I hope this helps a little more. Thanks for asking.
"How are a cat and a dog alike? An answer to this question requires:
The quote by John B. Watson suggests that with the right conditions and upbringing, any individual, regardless of their inherent abilities or background, could be trained to become any type of specialist. However, it is important to analyze this claim critically.
The claim made by Watson is controversial and has been a topic of debate in the field of psychology. While environment and upbringing certainly play a significant role in shaping an individual's development, it is generally agreed upon that genetics, innate abilities, and personal interests also play a crucial role in determining one's skills and talents.
To address the question of whether such a thing is hypothetically possible, we can approach it from two perspectives: nature (genetics) and nurture (environment).
From a nature perspective, it is well-established that genetic factors contribute significantly to an individual's abilities and talents. Each person is born with a unique set of genetic instructions that influence various traits, including cognitive abilities and predispositions towards certain aptitudes. Consequently, certain professions may require specific mental or physical characteristics, and not everyone may possess these innate qualities.
From a nurture perspective, environmental factors, such as education, upbringing, cultural influences, and opportunities, can play a substantial role in shaping an individual's skills and abilities. Providing a supportive and enriching environment can enhance a person's learning and development. However, it is unlikely that training alone could completely override genetic predispositions or inherent limitations.
While many specialists require extensive education and training, it is important to recognize that certain professions also demand a particular aptitude, passion, and interest. For instance, becoming a doctor requires an aptitude for scientific thinking and empathy, which are not easily trainable if they are not present to some degree.
In conclusion, while John B. Watson's claim is thought-provoking, it is likely an oversimplification of the complex interplay between nature and nurture in human development. While it is feasible to shape and enhance certain skills and characteristics through education and training, it is unlikely that any person can become any type of specialist without considering their inherent abilities, interests, and genetic predispositions.