Democracy and Education: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education

Dewey focuses on the work of two 19th-century pedagogical reformers, Froebel and Herbart. Compare and contrast their theories. Why does Dewey consider them important?

What is the relationship between Rousseau’s concept of nature and education? How does this relationship inform Dewey’s own concept of an ideal education?

What is the scientific method? What role does it play in science and the acquisition and systematization of knowledge at large?

How does Dewey define philosophy, and what is its relationship to education?

In Dewey’s view, what impact did ancient Greek thought have on the historical educational process up to the 20th century (and beyond)?

What is vocational education, and what role does it play in society?

Democracy and Education examines several dualisms, or binaries. What are they, and what attitude does Dewey have toward them?

What are some of the continuities and breaks in the historical educational process? What is their relationship to key political, economic, philosophical, and scientific developments?