Educating the True Self

Abstract

The emerging worldview of holism is commonly associated with post-Newtonian physics, ecological thinking, and various Oriental philosophies, but it also has deep roots in mystical and romantic trends in Western spirituality. This religious humanism, concerned with the "true self' or transpersonal essence of human personality, distinguishes holistic thought from nonspiritual humanistic approaches. The history of holistic education, encompassing such theorists as Rousseau, Pestalozzi, Froebel, Montessori, and Steiner, clearly demonstrates the influence of this romantic spirituality. This philosophy has been well expressed by three American religious humanists-William Ellery Channing, Thomas Merton, and Matthew Fox-whose thought contributes significantly to the holistic worldview. Finally, it is asserted here that holism is the leading edge of contemporary humanistic thought.