In the history of classical conditioning, who is credited with discovering and systematically describing the phenomenon?

• A. B. F. Skinner
• B. John B. Watson
• C. Edward Thorndike
• D. Ivan Pavlov

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of classical conditioning, which is a learning process that involves associating a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to produce a conditioned response.
2. Recall the key figures in the history of psychology related to learning theories: B. F. Skinner is known for operant conditioning, John B. Watson for behaviorism, Edward Thorndike for the law of effect, and Ivan Pavlov for classical conditioning.
3. Identify that classical conditioning specifically refers to the process discovered and described by Ivan Pavlov through his experiments with dogs, where he demonstrated how a neutral stimulus (like a bell) could elicit a conditioned response (salivation) after being paired with an unconditioned stimulus (food).
4. Recognize that the question asks who is credited with discovering and systematically describing classical conditioning, which points directly to Ivan Pavlov.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is Ivan Pavlov, as he is the foundational figure associated with the discovery and systematic description of classical conditioning.