"On Education"

Paper Summary:

This paper examines Rousseau's "On Education" in which he takes on the role of a governor for an imaginary child and creates his education plan. Critique of his writings is provided, which states that it has its share of flaws, since the observations and arguments are not based on scientific research on child development. The writer explains that the philosophy is based on one man's personal views and experiences, and thus, may or may not prove effective when applied to real-life situations.

From the Paper:

"There are various paths that Rousseau takes during this educational journey and takes the child along to show him what is more suitable for him in the long run. Emile is divided into six Books, each one of which deals with some particular aspect of education and mental development. For example in the first book, Rousseau exposes the child to the cold and harsh conditions of nature in order to help him develop immunity against harshness of life in later years. Book II focuses on physical development of the child. And similarly each book deals with something specific ending with the child Emile falling in love with Sophie. Rousseau believed that a child should be made strong from within. Instead of depending on external forces and circumstances, the child should be taught to be self-reliant and thus draw happiness and satisfaction from within him."

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