Behavioral variation: A neglected aspect in selectionist thinking

From: Behavior and Philosophy | Date: October 1, 1999| Author: | Copyright information

ABSTRACT: A selectionist approach to human ontogenetic development relies on three basic processes: variation, selection, and retention. The approach further implies that for adaptive behavior to emerge during development, each of these processes is required. Nevertheless, to date variation has been relatively neglected. Some studies show that behavioral variability is enhanced when the appropriate contingencies are present. Moreover, behavioral variability has been shown to facilitate the acquisition of difficult behaviors in animals (e.g., Neuringer, 1993). In the first part of the present ...

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