Faculties of effectual observation, reflection and desire are habits acquired under the influence of the culture and institutions of society, not ready-made inherent powers.
John Dewey: “Faculties of effectual observation, reflection and desire are habits acquired under the influence of the culture and…”
Editor's note · Context
Dewey explains that our abilities to observe and reflect are shaped by societal influences rather than being innate.
Share
More from John Dewey
Competition will continue, but it will be less rivalry for acquisition of material goods, and more an emulation of local groups to enrich direct experience with appreciatively enjoyed intellectual and artistic wealth.
Signs and symbols, language, are the means of communication by which a fraternally shared experience is ushered in and sustained.
Publication is partial and the public which results is partially informed and formed until the meanings it purveys pass from mouth to mouth.
But the wingèd words of conversation in immediate intercourse have a vital import lacking in the fixed and frozen words of written speech.