Philosophy of Essentialism

Essentialism resembles perennialsism in that it suggests that there is in fact an essential core of knowledge that all learners should be taught. For perennialists, that core comes from the foundation of western civilization. For essentialists, the necessary core of knowledge is a bit more flexible. The philosophy of essentialism stresses hard work, honesty, respect for authority, and productivity. But the core of practical knowledge taught must adapt to what is necessary for success in society as it exists at the time.

William Bagley (1874-1946) believed that a general liberal arts college degree did not adequately prepare teachers for their jobs in the classroom. He was a ferocious advocate of mandating educational theory and philosophy courses for all future teachers. He also argued against a purely progressive approach to teaching children. He suggested that there are skills and knowledge that should be provided to all students.