The Empirical Meaning of Life: A Psychological Answer to a Philosophical Question

In 1971, there was an article in Time Magazine about the influential behaviorist B.F. Skinner which talked about the notion that free will may be nothing more than an illusion. It was at this time that behaviorism seemed to reach its peak. In the years since then, however, behaviorism has become an increasingly popular psychological theory. Blended with its philosophical counterpart, Determinism, the complete impact of these two ideas can be appreciated on both a micro and macro level. These two concepts are discussed at length in academic journals and the works of late philosophers, yet they are vastly underappreciated by the general public. It is unfair that Humanism has stolen the psychological spotlight merely because it is the cheeriest outlook on human nature. This book is meant to take two highly debated and controversial ideas and make them more accessible. If these ideas become accepted by the majority it will lead to a new global outlook on life, love, religion, government, friendship and may even answer the elusive question “What is the meaning of life?”. While maintaining academic integrity and using highly regarded experimental examples The Empirical Meaning of Life gives concrete examples of previously abstract ideas.