How We Think We Think

Abstract

Background The intellectual context of this essay is the nature of human thought as examined by philosophers and psychologists past and present. Focus of study The study focuses on the treatment of thinking by John Dewey in his two editions of ‘How We Think’ and by William James in his ‘Talks to Teachers’. Research Design This is a philosophical/interpretive essay. Conclusions The essay concludes that both James and Dewey addressed the nature of thinking too narrowly. A broader conception of thinking is urged. The implications for teachers are briefly discussed.