Which psychologist is famous for his "law of effect" related to learning?

• A. Watson
• B. Thorndike
• C. Skinner
• D. Piaget

Answer: (B)

The psychologist famous for his "law of effect" related to learning is Thorndike. The law of effect is a foundational concept in behavioral psychology that suggests behaviors followed by satisfying outcomes tend to be repeated, while those followed by unpleasant outcomes are less likely to occur again. Thorndike's work, particularly his experiments with cats in puzzle boxes, demonstrated this principle, showing that animals would learn to escape more efficiently when rewarded with food for their success. This concept laid the groundwork for later theories in operant conditioning, particularly those developed by B.F. Skinner, but it is Thorndike who is primarily associated with the original formulation of the law of effect. This principle significantly influenced how we understand the mechanics of learning and behavior reinforcement.