Émile, or On Education

Émile, or On Education is a seminal work by philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, published in 1762. It presents an educational philosophy centered on the idea of natural development. Rousseau argues that education should align with the natural growth of a child, promoting individual freedom and critical thinking rather than rote learning. The book follows the fictional character Émile through different stages of life, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning and emotional development. Ultimately, Rousseau advocates for a holistic approach to education that nurtures both intellect and character, challenging the traditional methods of his time.