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Children Quote by Philip Wylie

“The first gold star a child gets in school for the mere performance of a needful task is its first lesson in graft.” quote by Philip Wylie
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“The first gold star a child gets in school for the mere performance of a needful task is its first lesson in graft.”

Philip Wylie

About This Quote

Source Book: The Devil’s Dream, 1935

Rewarding superficial compliance in children teaches them to value appearance over effort, fostering dishonesty.

In simple terms: Praise for easy tasks breeds cheating.

Key Takeaway

Focus on effort, not just results.

Themes

education ethics parenting

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • classroom
  • homework
  • sports
  • family chores

Key Concepts

intrinsic motivation integrity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can teachers reward genuine effort?
  • What signals encourage authentic achievement?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on grades can undermine genuine learning.

4.3 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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