Question

Keeping in mind the central commitments of John Dewey’s Pragmatism, which one of the following applies to his concept of experience?

• A. It involves transaction between the individual and her environment.
• B. It is an inferior source of knowledge.
• C. It is shaped by the environment but cannot modify the environment.
• D. It is overridden by reason in validating knowledge.

Hint:

For Dewey, experience is the central source of knowledge, and it is defined by active engagement and reciprocal influence with the environment.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding John Dewey's Concept of Experience.
John Dewey, in his pragmatism, emphasizes that experience is a dynamic, ongoing interaction between the individual and their environment. For Dewey, experience is not a passive reception of knowledge, but an active engagement that shapes and is shaped by the environment. Step 2: Analyzing the Options.
- (A) It involves transaction between the individual and her environment: This is the correct answer, as Dewey’s concept of experience is centered around the active interaction between individuals and their environment.
- (B) It is an inferior source of knowledge: This is incorrect, as Dewey considers experience to be the foundation of knowledge.
- (C) It is shaped by the environment but cannot modify the environment: This is incorrect, as Dewey believes in the reciprocal nature of the relationship, where individuals can also modify their environment through experience.
- (D) It is overridden by reason in validating knowledge: This is incorrect, as Dewey views experience as central to understanding and knowledge, not overridden by reason. Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) because Dewey’s concept of experience highlights the transactional nature of human engagement with the environment.