The technique of employing tools and machines was equally something which had to be learned; it was no natural endowment but something acquired by observing others, by instruction and communication.
This quote highlights that the skills required to use tools and machines are learned rather than innate.
Share
More from John Dewey
In no two ages or places is there the same public.
In other words, every officer of the public, whether he represents it as a voter or as a stated official, has a dual capacity.
But he does so only at the cost of repression of those of his potentialities which can be realized only through membership in other groups.
They are reflections into the singular human being of customs and institutions; they are not natural, that is, “native,” organic propensities.