Definition of David Premack

David Premack was a prominent psychologist and researcher known for his contributions to the field of comparative psychology. Born in 1925, he specialized in studying the behavior and cognitive abilities of primates, particularly chimpanzees.

Early Life and Education

Premack was born on August 26, 1925, in Vineland, New Jersey. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), before obtaining a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Michigan. During his time at Michigan, he studied under the renowned psychologist B.F. Skinner, who greatly influenced his research interests.

Contributions to Psychology

Premack made significant contributions to the fields of comparative psychology and behaviorism. He is best known for developing the concept of the “Premack Principle,” which states that a more preferred activity can be used to reinforce a less preferred activity. This principle has important applications in behavior modification and has been influential in understanding motivation and reward systems.

Additionally, Premack conducted extensive research on primate cognition, focusing on chimpanzees. He explored their abilities in understanding language and using tools, shedding light on the similarities and differences between human and non-human intelligence.

Legacy and Impact

Throughout his career, David Premack published numerous papers and books, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in comparative psychology. His work has had a lasting impact on the field, shaping our understanding of reinforcement and the cognitive abilities of animals.

Premack passed away on May 17, 2015, but his contributions continue to inspire and influence researchers in the field of psychology.