Logical Learning Theory: A Human Teleology and Its Empirical Support

In 1989, B. F. Skinner told Joseph Rychlak that the greatest disappointment resulting from the "cognitive revolution" was the turning of the human organism into a machine. Intrigued by this statement, Rychlak decided that after many years of formulation it was time to present his fundamentally teleological view of the human being, which he calls the "logical learning theory" (LLT). In this new theoretical perspective the author re-presents such concepts as intention, purpose, and free will. Significant aspects of the "mind-body" issue are explored here. Rychlak addresses teleological issues and provides a language for proper conceptualization. He uses experimental findings to support the notion of behavior as self-directed rather than mechanistic.

In the process, Rychlak places LLT on the side of teleological explanation, in which concepts like free will, self-choice, purpose and intention are no longer dismissed. Rychlak compares LLT and existing formulations of behavior, including classical and operant conditioning, social learning theory, social constructionism, cognitive science, gestalt theories, and personality theories. Extensive research data and thorough discussions support Rychlak's theory. A glossary is also included.