Solomon attended Brown University, where he earned a bachelor's degree (A.B.)
Solomon won several awards for his scientific achievements, including the Distinguished Scientific Contribution award of the American Psychological Association and the Howard Crosby WARREN Medal of the Society of Experimental Psychologists.
He also held several honorary posts, and edited the Psychological Review.
During his time at Harvard University, Solomon conducted research into avoidance learning.
Eventually, the dogs learned to avoid shock entirely by running to the other side in the interval between lighting and electrification.