Theoretical reflections on the use of students as surrogate subjects in behavioral experimentation

Heavy reliance on college students as surrogate experimental subjects has historically generated a great deal of controversy. Interestingly, despite its rudimentary importance to behavioral experimentation, recent dialogues on the issue are curiously scarce. This essay seeks to re-open a critical dialogue on the subject by reflecting on three theoretical or methodological issues central to the historical strife surrounding experimental subject surrogation.