CONTINGENCIES, LOGIC, AND LEARNING

A logical analysis of operant learning is presented. In total, the ana lysis makes a number of predictions that are different from the predic tions of any other theory. Individual predictions can be explained by other theories, but the pattern of predictions is unique. Some tests o f the: predictions of the analysis with human newborns are described. The analysis predicts increased variance in sucking with the introduct ion of continuous reinforcement. This does occur. The analysis predict s a decreased rate of sucking with a shift from continuous to partial reinforcement. This does occur. The analysis predicts an increased rat e of sucking with a shift from continuous reinforcement to continuous plus noncontingent reinforcement. Due to methodological deficiencies, we have been unable to test this prediction. However, it has been conf irmed by others. The most exciting prediction of the analysis is a rap id way of producing extinction. That has not been tested with newborns ; however, there is confirmatory evidence in the literature.