The concept of reflection in the work of John Dewey

John Dewey’s writings on thought form the groundwork for most modern conceptions of reflection. By revisiting these writings, this article provides an examination of his view of reflection, and its connection to his broader philosophy of cultural naturalism. Aimed at making Dewey’s ideas accessible to a new audience, the article first introduces key concepts from Dewey’s philosophy of cultural naturalism as they pertain to reflection. It then explores Dewey’s understanding of the reflective process and identifies obstacles which may lead to a premature conclusion. The article further explains how reflective practices can be nurtured within educational settings, offering a visual model of facilitated reflection. Finally, the article concludes by considering the relevance of Dewey’s insights for contemporary discussions of cognition, underscoring their enduring impact and practical applicability.