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Action Quote by John Dewey

“Good manners come, as we say, from good breeding or rather are good breeding; and breeding is acquired by habitual action, in response to habitual stimuli, not by conveying information.” quote by John Dewey
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“Good manners come, as we say, from good breeding or rather are good breeding; and breeding is acquired by habitual action, in response to habitual stimuli, not by conveying information.”

John Dewey

About This Quote

Source Book: Experience and Education by John Dewey, 1938

Good manners develop through repeated actions triggered by consistent stimuli, not just by instruction.

In simple terms: Manners are learned by habit, not teaching.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate positive habits.

Themes

education behavior social norms

Mood

reflective educational

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • school curricula
  • workplace etiquette

Key Concepts

habit formation learning theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What habits shape your social behavior?
  • How can you redesign stimuli for better manners?
A Different Perspective

Habits can be hard to change once formed.

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