Seeing as I was not in class Thursday, I thought I might raise a question about the reading, and perhaps you may have answers tempered by the discussion in class.
How does the teacher in Emile differ from the Philosopher Ruler in the Allegory of the Cave?
Emile is quoted in the packet stating (roughly) that he would like to continue to be the person molded by the teacher; as is part of Rousseau's concept of education as a 'denaturing process.' Emile is even quoted later to have considered retaining his teacher, so that he would always have the guidance he needs.
To me, this seems much a more paternalistic style of teaching than the Philosopher Ruler, who acts as more of a guide. While the molder of Emile is a teacher, the molder of the cave dweller is knowledge; the teacher merely exposes him or her to it. Thoughts?
Interesting observation. Perhaps the source of knowledge that gets one "out of the cave" may differ across individuals. This may even occur on different levels such as education through direct experience, self-education, or being a very close follower to the teacher. It is likely that personality and cognitive style will require different forms of education for the most efficacious experience.
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