Of all the men we meet with, nine parts of ten are what they are, good or evil useful or not, by their education. Tis this that makes the great difference in mankind.

Locke begins Some Thoughts Concerning Education by stressing the importance of education. Education, he tells us, is what makes a man what he is. Locke believes firmly in the malleability of the human mind, and so he is convinced that no matter what natural inclinations a man is born it is the way in which he is educated that determines whether he will be virtuous or vicious, ill-bred or well-bred, wise or foolish. Education, then, is not just about teaching a child facts and forming his intellect;. First and foremost education is about forming a full human being.

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