“To endure is the first thing that a child ought to learn, and that which he will have the most need to know.”
- June 28, 1712 – July 2, 1778
- Born in Geneva
- Philosopher, political philosopher, writer, composer
- He advocated popular sovereignty in “The Social Contract” and influenced the French Revolution and modern democracy.
Quote
“To endure is the first thing that a child ought to learn, and that which he will have the most need to know.”
Explanation
In this quote, Jean-Jacques Rousseau emphasizes the importance of resilience and perseverance in early childhood development. Rousseau believed that education should focus not only on intellectual growth but also on teaching children how to cope with the challenges of life. His views were part of his larger educational philosophy, especially as outlined in his book Emile, or On Education. According to Rousseau, children should be encouraged to face adversity and learn to endure difficulties as part of their natural development, rather than being sheltered from life’s hardships.
This perspective was revolutionary in Rousseau’s time. In the 18th century, many educational systems focused primarily on discipline and rote learning, with little attention given to the emotional or psychological development of children. Rousseau’s insistence on endurance as a foundational principle of childhood education reflects his broader critique of society, where he felt that many were overly dependent on external comforts and distractions. Instead, Rousseau proposed that true education should empower children to face the realities of life with strength and resilience.
In the modern world, this quote continues to resonate, especially in an era of instant gratification and avoidance of discomfort. With the rise of technology, social media, and other conveniences, many children today face fewer challenges that encourage them to build emotional resilience. This quote can be applied to contemporary parenting and education by urging adults to help children face challenges, make mistakes, and learn from failure, rather than simply providing them with easy solutions or protecting them from hardship. Endurance, in this sense, remains a crucial life skill that can help children navigate the complexities and challenges of the modern world.
