Skinner's Theory of Selection by consequence B.F. Skinner Selection by Consequences Skinner argues that ones behavior is determined by the consequences that follow. In the exert Selection by Consequence , Skinner claims that his theory of operant conditioning is the second condition which can be derived from natural selection and is a necessary component of the evolution of social environment and culture. The first selection is biological and revolves around Darwin's theory of natural selection.
Skinner claims that natural selection and operant conditioning are extremely compatible.
An example of this that can be detected in nature is the behavior of ducklings following their mother. Natural selection attributes this to the natural response of the ducklings to follow large moving objects. Operant conditioning is shaped by the sequence of simpler principles at levels one and three and applied to all living things. According to Skinner, once humans gained operant control of vocal musculature we became a more social species. Speech is a result of operant conditioning because of the positive reinforcement that follows.