Walden Two (1948) (edit title/settings)

• Rated 3 stars

“I can definitely see the appeal of this book, written by one of the most notable Behaviourist Psychologists of the last century; however it is flawed in its style, and prose.

One has to remember throughout whilst reading Walden Two, that the author is a scientist, and by no means a novelest in his truest nature; this is clearly transpired through most of the language, description (and lack-thereof), and certainly in the conversation between the characters.

The story itself is interesting, but I believe it would have been bettered served, or more importantly, the lengthy debates throughout, would have been better displayed in an essay. The themes and ideas throughout are mostly compelling, and even with little psychological background, it would be easy for a novice to comprehend. But I felt that the true essence of what is trying to be said by this work was lost through the author's obvious lack of fiction ability.

I do however suggest reading this book, especially if you're studying psychology, and you appreciate the debates around issues in society, and also debates surrounding the various psychological approaches. Behaviourism here being the main approach examined.

Good, but not brilliant.”

• Rated 3 stars

“Unfortunately, I kept getting distracted while reading this book- so it took me ages to finish. I feel like I would have appreciated it more had I been able to give it more of my attention. Eitherway, I did enjoy it- perhaps because I am a major Psychology dork. I do not agree with Skinner's opinions on how to make the world a perfect place, but I do find the concept to be an interesting one. ”

• Rated 4 stars

“This fictional outline of a modern Utopia has been a centre of controversy ever since its publication in 1948. Set in the United States, it pictures a society in which human problems are solved by a scientific technology of human conduct.”

• Rated 1 stars

“Loathsome. Skinner always claimed that he was misunderstood, but the sort of society he advocates in Walden Two is Orwellian and it is very clear what he believes. The difference is that where Orwell despised tyranny, Skinner seems to think we would be much better off without democracy, parenting, and freedom of choice. Frankly, the ideas are disgusting. Also, the book is poorly written. One-dimensional characters presenting a series of 'straw men' which are torn down. Skinner was a frustrated novelist, but not a very good one. As an aside, I believe there are a couple of communities in the US operating under the principles espoused in Walden Two. Yikes! Unless you are interested in the life of Skinner don't bother reading this - there are many other much better books about 'Utopias', such as More's for starters.”

• Rated 0 stars

“Indeed an interesting read. ”

• Rated 2 stars

“Walden Two is a book that constantly insists that the world it presents is isn't a controlling society in which the free will of human is lost under the utilitarian functions of an ideal community. But it is, even though it says it isn't, being of the most hypocritical texts I've ever read. ”

• Rated 3 stars

“Some utterly insane concepts, an irritating writing style and yet I kind of liked it and may even read it again...go figure. Helpful in understanding where he envisioned getting to with behaviorism.”

• Rated 1 stars

“An Anti-Walden. Man is no longer natural and at home, but a part of a social organism to be manipulated. Bears comparison with Plato's Republic, about which see Popper's The Open Society and its Enemies.”