This diverse set of essays traces Epstein's experimental and theoretical work over a 15-year period. Four of the essays were coauthored by the eminent psychologist B. F. Skinner. The book demonstrates how the scientific study of the behavior can increase our understanding and effectiveness in many domains: creativity and innovation, parenting, artificial intelligence, self-improvement, and even world peace.

Reviewers have praised the volume as an impressive effort by one of America's most notable psychologists.

The volume paints a fairly consistent picture of Epstein's evolving view on cognition, creativity, and behavior. The first sections focus on generativity research and theory and on some "Columban" (pigeon) simulations of human behavior, including some related laboratory studies.

The next sections cover efforts to create a comprehensive science of behavior; esssays about Skinner, one of the principal architects of behaviorism; and forays into artificial intelligence, child rearing, categorization research, and other topics. The volume concludes with some uncertain reflections on growing older and a modest proposal for a day of world peace.