The main reasons that Skinner switched from rats to pigeons were: 1. Their visual system (in terms of acuity and color sensitivity) is much like humans. 2. They were available for free on the window sill of his lab on the 7th floor of the Pillsbury flour mill that he used during WWII. He was working (with Army support) on a pigeon guided bomb, so pigeons were an ideal subject. He and his students continued to work with them. On the other hand, rats (and monkeys) are preferred for behavioral pharmacology work.
To answer your question as written: Both species can be and are used to DEMONSTRATE operant conditioning principles. Their use in experimental research depends on the experimental question being asked. On Apr 20, 2009, at 2:53 PM, [email protected] wrote: > > Are pigeons preferred in demonstrating conditioning principles than > rats or vice versa? > > What are the pros and cons? Paul Brandon Emeritus Professor of Psychology Minnesota State University, Mankato [email protected] --- To make changes to your subscription contact: Bill Southerly ([email protected])
