Some Thoughts Concerning Education by Locke, John - 1693

London: A. & J. Churchill, 1693. Second edition. Hardcover. Very good condition. Locke writes to his friend Edward Clarke, his thoughts on education, "Tis what makes the great difference in Mankind: The little, and almost insensible Impressions on our tender Infancies, have very important and lasting Consequences" (p2). The Contents of the Sections appears at the back of the volume, and begins with "Alteration" and ends with "Writing". Small 8vo, v, 262pp, Contents (ii). Handsomely rebound in period style in full calf, the text bright and extremely clean. This is the second edition, with "Patronage." on leaf A3v, line 19. A milestone in education theory and is now considered one of the earliest expressions of the principals of modern developmental psychology. Locke advanced three principal theories; that the talents and abilities of a child should dictate that child's education rather than strict curriculums and the threat of the rod; physical and emotional health were essential to the intellectual development of children; and that exercise and play were a vital part of a child's overall education. In addition, Locke also argued the need for pictures in books for children; images are vital in the learning process, providing reference points for memories. It was published in 53 editions in the 18th century alone.