Human Nature and Conduct · Chapter
Part I: The Place of Habit in Conduct explained
This chapter establishes habit as the fundamental unit of conduct, arguing that habits are not mere mechanical repetitions but active, social functions that constitute the self and shape moral character.
What happens
This chapter establishes habit as the fundamental unit of conduct, arguing that habits are not mere mechanical repetitions but active, social functions that constitute the self and shape moral character. Dewey critiques traditional dualisms that separate mind from body, will from habit, and individual from environment, emphasizing that habits are formed through interaction with social conditions and are the primary means by which character and will are expressed.
Themes in this chapter
Habit and Custom as the Foundation of Conduct
Dewey argues that habits are the primary units of conduct, shaping character and moral action, and that they are formed through social customs and environmental conditions.
Critique of Traditional Morality and Dualisms
Dewey critiques the dualistic separation of will from habit, mind from body, and individual from environment, which he sees as foundational to traditional moral philosophy.
Characters to notice
- Kant
Dewey implicitly critiques Kantian morality by rejecting the separation of will from habit and duty from natural inclination.
- Plato
Dewey references Plato's idea of the tripartite soul as an example of a dualistic view that separates reason from appetite and habit.
- Aristotle
Dewey draws on Aristotle's concept of habit (hexis) as a formed disposition that shapes character and ethical conduct.
- William James
Dewey engages with James's psychological insights on habit as a conservative force and its role in forming character.
Key passages
“Habit is the mainspring of human action, and habits are formed for the most part under the influence of the customs of a group.”
Habits drive human behavior and are largely shaped by the social customs of the community.
Dewey emphasizes the social origin of habits, rejecting the idea that they are purely individual or mechanical.
“The essence of habit is an acquired predisposition to ways or modes of response, not to particular acts except as, under special conditions, these express a way of behaving.”
Habit is a learned tendency to respond in certain ways, not a fixed set of specific actions.
Dewey defines habit as a flexible disposition rather than a rigid routine, highlighting its adaptive function.