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Aim Quote by John Lancaster Spalding

“A liberal education is that which aims to develop faculty without ulterior views of profession or other means of gaining a livelihood. It considers man an end in himself and not an instrument whereby something is to be wrought. Its ideal is human perfection.” quote by John Lancaster Spalding
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“A liberal education is that which aims to develop faculty without ulterior views of profession or other means of gaining a livelihood. It considers man an end in himself and not an instrument whereby something is to be wrought. Its ideal is human perfection.”

John Lancaster Spalding

About This Quote

Source Book: The Catholic University and Its Ideals, John Lancaster Spalding, 1901

Education should cultivate the whole person, not just job skills, treating individuals as ends in themselves and aiming for human perfection.

In simple terms: Education should develop the whole person, not just career skills.

Key Takeaway

Focus on holistic growth over vocational training.

Themes

education humanism holistic development ethics

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • teaching
  • curriculum design
  • personal development programs
  • community service
  • philosophical debate

Key Concepts

human perfection intrinsic value liberal arts

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can curricula balance personal growth with career readiness?
  • What measures ensure education remains a means to human flourishing?
A Different Perspective

May overlook practical economic needs of students.

2.1 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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