O behaviorismo como pensamento calculador: uma crítica norteada pela filosofia de Martin Heidegger

Abstract

The dissertation undertakes a critical analysis of the behaviorist approach in psychology, with the critical focus guided by the thought of Martin Heidegger, and particularly by the concept of “calculative thinking”. The central objective of the research is to investigate the behaviorist claim to establish psychology as a science of behavior, examining this ambition from an ontological and philosophical perspective. The study, of a theoretical-bibliographical nature, is based on primary texts by John B. Watson and Burrhus F. Skinner, which outline the philosophical principles and worldview underlying behaviorism. These authors advocate for an approach that prioritizes objective observation and rigorous measurement of behaviors, excluding introspective analysis, focusing on what we term as "calculative thinking," that is, a mode of operation that relies on useful and measurable results. Concurrently, our research draws on the works of the German philosopher Martin Heidegger, who, by examining the notions of being and essence (Wesen) in light of a dialogue with the metaphysical tradition, contributes meditations on the historical context that shapes modern knowledge, offering a critical perspective on the tendency of contemporary sciences to reduce knowledge to technical formulas and exact concepts. Heidegger argues that this reduction ignores the complexity of human existence, promoting a worldview that treats humans and nature as sources of utility. The dissertation thus aims to clarify how Heideggerian criticism can shed light on the limitations of the behaviorist perspective, highlighting the inherent problems in its empirical and utilitarian approach. Our specific objectives include: analyzing the genesis of psychology as a formal discipline within the context of metaphysics and modern sciences; understanding how behaviorism aligns with the scientific project outlined by Western tradition; characterizing the essence of modern science in Heidegger's interpretation; and finally, questioning the philosophical assumptions of radical behaviorism, investigating the implications of its worldview for contemporary times. Therefore, the central question guiding the development of this research can be formulated as follows: how can Heideggerian thought, unfolding within the realm of ontology, contribute to a critical reflection on the empirical and technical approach to human investigation within the domain of psychology? This investigation thus aims to promote a more comprehensive reflection on the limitations and possibilities of contemporary behaviorist psychology in light of a critical ontology.