Teaching by example is considered as a fundamental aspect in influencing human behaviors. According to “A portrait of the Teacher as a Friend and an Artist: An Example of Jean-Jacques Rousseau” by Hunter McEwan (2011), Rousseau establishes himself as a literary figure in his philosophy. He portrays himself as an example to be followed by others, and in turn influence their behaviors. He derives his ideologies from his life experiences, and uses them to influence those he intends to be an example to. The essay analyses the three ways that an individual can teach by example, how teaching influences ethical, moral reasoning, and cultural sensitivity, and supports his argument in which he denies the power of teaching by example.
There are three ways an individual can teach by example. First, a person achieves that by being a role model to the others, and this can be done by establishing a reputation that can be emulated by others. Second, he or she can build a relationship with the students by getting to know them, and offering them help on achieving their success. Third, the process requires some degree of skills and inventiveness to influence others in a positive way. For example, by connecting with the others through discussions and creating an environment for them to learn, he can set an example of how he expects them to live.
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Furthermore, teaching by example influences ethical, moral, and cultural sensitivity through genuineness. Despite the coexistence of good and bad in an individual, people find it as an example of a good person with weaknesses. Therefore, morality and honesty influences the morals of the students rather than being right. Furthermore, the community is important in teaching morals and ethics through socialization and example setting. Learning and doing what others do might result in people being cultured. However, Rousseau detests the aspects of teaching by example, claiming that learning from others may create desires that may need to be fulfilled. To some extent, those desires may be negative and therefore should be avoided.
Therefore, teaching by example can take place in three ways; including being a role model, establishing a connection, and having skills and tactics, which can be emulated. The processes influence the moral and ethical reasoning of others, as well as their cultural sensitivity. I agree with Rousseau argument that denies the education power of example, since some aspects of desires created are negative, and should be avoided.
References
McEwan, H. (2011). A Portrait of the Teacher as Friend and Artist: The example of Jean ‐ Jacques Rousseau. Educational philosophy and theory , 43 (5), 508-520.
