In this video I explain the difference between classical conditioning and operant conditioning. Next I explain Thorndike’s work with cats in puzzle boxes which led to his Law of Effect. This approach was greatly expanded by B.F. Skinner’s work on operant conditioning which distinguished primary and secondary reinforcers, as well as positive and negative reinforcement and positive and negative punishment. … Read More
How Does Toxoplasmosis Affect the Brain?
I highly recommend checking out this excellent interview with one of my favorite lecturers, Robert Sapolsky. He discusses fascinating ways different parasites like toxoplasma gondii are able to take control of behavior via some surprising neurological mechanisms. It appears that the toxo parasite makes rats sexually attracted to the scent of cat urine, increasing the odds the rat will end … Read More