Human Nature and Conduct is a classic book written by John Dewey, an American philosopher and psychologist. The book is an introduction to social psychology, which explores how human beings interact with each other and how they are influenced by their environment. Dewey's central thesis is that human nature is not fixed, but rather is shaped by social and cultural factors. He argues that our conduct is not determined by our biological makeup, but rather by our social and cultural environment. The book is divided into three parts. The first part explores the concept of human nature and how it is shaped by social and cultural factors. Dewey argues that human nature is not a fixed set of traits, but rather is constantly evolving and changing in response to our environment. The second part of the book examines the role of habit in human conduct. Dewey argues that habits are not simply automatic responses to stimuli, but rather are learned behaviors that are shaped by our environment. The third part of the book explores the relationship between individual conduct and social institutions. Dewey argues that social institutions are not fixed entities, but rather are constantly evolving in response to the changing needs of society. He also explores the role of education in shaping human conduct and argues that education should focus on developing critical thinking skills and fostering a sense of social responsibility.Overall, Human Nature and Conduct is a thought-provoking and insightful book that challenges traditional views of human nature and behavior. It is a must-read for anyone interested in social psychology, philosophy, or sociology.1922. This insightful treatise on the essential components of human nature by the great American philosopher and educator John Dewey grew from a series of three lectures presented at Leland Stanford Junior University upon the West Memorial Foundation. One of the topics included was Human Conduct and Destiny. In his own words, Dewey has, set forth a belief that an understanding of habit and different types of habit is the key to social psychology, while the operation of impulse and intelligence gives the key to individualized mental activity. See other titles by this author available from Kessinger Publishing.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
In the spring of 1918 I was invited by Leland Stanford Junior University to give a series of three lectures upon the West Memorial Foundation. One of the topics included within the scope of the Foundation is Human Conduct and Destiny. This volume is the result, as, according to the terms of the Foundation, the lectures are to be published. The lectures as given have, however, been rewritten and considerably expanded. An Introduction and Conclusion have been added. The lectures should have been published within two years from delivery. Absence from the country rendered strict compliance difficult; and I am indebted to the authorities of the University for their indulgence in allowing an extension of time, as well as for so many courtesies received during the time when the lectures were given.
Perhaps the sub-title requires a word of explanation. The book does not purport to be a treatment of social psychology. But it seriously sets forth a belief that an understanding of habit and of different types of habit is the key to social psychology, while the operation of impulse and intelligence gives the key to individualized mental activity. But they are secondary to habit so that mind can be understood in the concrete only as a system of beliefs, desires and purposes which are formed in the interaction of biological aptitudes with a social environment. -- J.D., February, 1921
