Children Quote by Bruno Bettelheim
“Plato--who may have understood better what forms the mind of man than do some of our contemporaries who want their children exposed only to "real" people and everyday events--knew what intellectual experience made for true humanity. He suggested that the future citizens of his ideal republic begin their literary education with the telling of myths, rather than with mere facts or so-called rational teachings.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Uses of Enchantment by Bruno Bettelheim, 1976
Myths shape human understanding better than mere facts, fostering deeper humanity and moral insight.
In simple terms: Stories teach humanity more than facts.
Key Takeaway
Use myths to nurture moral imagination.
Themes
education
mythology
humanity
literature
morality
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- parental guidance
- community workshops
- media literacy
- storytelling sessions
Key Concepts
Narrative psychology
cultural transmission
cognitive development
Questions to Reflect On
- How can myths be balanced with factual learning?
- What role do myths play in modern education?
A Different Perspective
Myths may oversimplify complex realities, leading to misconceptions.
