In order to improve the mind, we ought less to learn, than to contemplate.
Rene DescartesRead
When we find ourselves unable to reason (as one often does when presented with, say, a problem in algebra) it is because our imagination is not touched. One can begin to reason only when a clear picture has been formed in the imagination. Bad teaching is teaching which presents an endless procession of meaningless signs, words and rules, and fails to arouse the imagination.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Imagination is crucial for understanding and reasoning, especially in learning.
W. W. Sawyer emphasizes the importance of imagination in the learning process, particularly in subjects like mathematics. He argues that when students cannot grasp a concept, it often stems from a lack of engagement with their imagination, which is necessary for forming clear mental pictures and understanding complex ideas. Effective teaching should inspire curiosity and creativity rather than simply presenting abstract symbols and rules that lack meaning.
Themes
ImaginationLearningReasoningEducationTeaching
In practice
Example use cases
During a classroom discussion about the importance of creativity in math, this quote can illustrate the need for imaginative teaching methods.
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