Dewey And Eros: Wisdom And Desire In The Art of Teaching

by James A. Garrison

This provocative examination of what motivates us to teach and to learn begins with the idea of eros (i.e., passionate desire), and how that desire results in a practical wisdom that guides us in recognizing what is essentially good or valuable. The author weaves these threads into a critical analysis of John Dewey's writings.

325 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1997

Reviews

[Virginia]

Jim Garrison is an amazing professor and a great friend. His book is full of incredible ideas, even if it is difficult to slog through his writing style sometimes.

I feel fully justified in saying that, because I did the first edit on his subsequent book. :)

[Jason]

p. 36

[Bowdoin]

Reader in group - Students have threatened to design and make me wear an "I ? Dewey" t-shirt. How fitting, then, to bring the heart and John Dewey together in the book I just finished “Dewey and Eros: Wisdom and Desire in the Art of Teaching by Jim Garrison. We become what we love, says Garrison, so a teacher's work is to help students come to love what is worthwhile in life. In order for teachers to be up to that task, he explains, they must pursue passionately the good in their own lives. Through Dewey's philosophy, Garrison shows how desire, too often maligned as merely a sentimental or hedonistic impulse, enables inquiry, freedom, wisdom and thoughtful practice. I think I'll be using this book in my new course on Education and the Human Condition.