ABSTRACT
Written by a behavioral scientist, this chapter examines claims related to superstitions and distinguishes between socially shared superstitions and personal superstitions. The chapter discusses B. F. Skinner's research on learning as related to "superstitious behavior" in pigeons and also describes research with children and college students. Overall, understanding superstitious behavior helps provide insight into some of the forces that help to shape our beliefs.
The chapter concludes by posing the question - "Do superstitions work?" - and provides some surprising answers.
