In this progressive work, written more than 80 years ago, Dewey, recognizing tha
t we are born with the ability to think, argues that the educator's fundamental
role is to train us to think well. At a time when America is lamenting the lack
of solid training in the sciences at the elementary and secondary levels, Dewey'
s enthusiastic correlation between the scientific mind and the natural attitude
of childhoodmarked by curiosity, imagination, and the love of experimental inqui
ryoffers a refreshing and optimistic perspective. He demonstrates how an appreci
ation of this correlation and a recognition of its value in educational practice
can promote individual happiness and reduce social waste.
