You probably did not know, but Storykate is a qualified philosopher, as I graduated from Moscow State University with an undergraduate degree in teaching philosophy and political science. No wonder, I have a soft spot for philosophers, and they, of course, had a lot of ideas about pedagogy or the art and science of teaching.
Today we are going to talk about Plato, an ancient Greek philosopher, who had a lot of brilliant (and some outdated) ideas about pedagogy and raising young children. Let’s delve into it!
Plato, the ancient Greek philosopher, had significant ideas about education, including early childhood education and care. His views on pedagogy are primarily presented in his work “The Republic,” where he discusses the ideal state and the role of education in shaping citizens. Here are some key aspects of Plato’s ideas on early childhood education and care:
- Plato advocated for a system where children would be raised collectively by the state, emphasising the importance of the community in their upbringing. How is that not communism?!
- The selection and breeding of children were to be carefully managed by the state to ensure that only the most capable individuals became part of the ruling class. Rational idea, with a bit of eugenics in it (breeding of children – ha?)
“The direction in which education starts a man will determine his future life.”
Plato
- Plato believed in separating children from their biological parents at an early age. The purpose was to break down familial ties and foster loyalty to the state. Modern science proved that attachment is more important and even in case of vulnerable families, the government interferes and separates families only in rare cases.
“Do not train a child to learn by force or harshness; but direct them to it by what amuses their minds, so that you may be better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each.”
Plato
- Plato saw education as a lifelong process beginning in early childhood. Plato emphasised the importance of early intellectual and physical training. These ideas are reflected in modern approaches to education, e.g. in the EYLF (outcome 3 – Children have a strong sense of wellbeing)
- Young children were to engage in activities that promoted physical fitness, music, and literature to develop both the body and the mind. I think this idea of engaging art-based curriculum and inclusion of movement and exercise is fantastic and still valuable.
One of the most interesting ideas of Plato is about guardians as role models.
- The state-appointed guardians, or rulers, were considered role models for the children. These individuals were expected to embody the virtues and values that the state held dear. I think we can apply this to early childhood teachers and the Code of Conduct. We are expected to share the values of the Code.
- Children would learn through observation and emulation of the guardians, fostering the desired qualities in the next generation. This is still a valid statement and is proven by other studies and theories (e.g. Bruner).
“Education is teaching our children to desire the right things.”
Plato
- Plato was concerned about the potential influence of stories and narratives on young minds. He proposed strict censorship of literature and stories to ensure that they conveyed morally and ethically acceptable values. This can be applied to modern mass – media and parental control.
- Plato believed in specialisation in education based on individual abilities. He proposed a system where children would be directed towards specific occupations or roles based on their aptitudes and talents. How is this not professional counselling or facilitated work experience?
To sum up, I like some ideas of Plato, yet we need to think critically about his ideas and in line with the critical theory question: who is advantaged? Who benefits? Who is disadvantaged? What do you think about Plato’s ideas – do they resonate with you?
