Praxis
conceptPurposeful human action guided by values — distinct from mere labour or theoretical contemplation.
The Myth
Aristotle distinguished praxis (doing) from poiesis (making) and theoria (contemplation). Praxis is action whose end is internal to itself — acting justly for the sake of justice, not for external reward. It requires phronesis (practical wisdom) and cannot be reduced to following rules. Marx later adopted the term to mean the unity of theory and practice in revolutionary action. In education, praxis means reflective practice — the cycle of action, reflection, and improved action.
Symbols
Fun Fact
Paulo Freire made praxis central to his Pedagogy of the Oppressed, and the concept now underpins critical pedagogy worldwide.
Words We Inherited
English words and phrases that trace back to this myth:
Explore Further
Aegis
conceptThe aegis was a divine shield or breastplate belonging to Zeus and wielded by Athena, fringed with...
Agape
conceptSelfless, unconditional love — the highest form of love in Greek philosophical and theological...
Ajax (Shield)
conceptAjax's shield was a massive tower shield of seven ox-hides layered with bronze — the largest...
Aletheia
conceptTruth understood as unconcealment — the revealing of what was hidden.
Amazonomachy
conceptThe Amazonomachy was the legendary battle between the Athenians and the Amazons who invaded Athens...
Ambrosia
conceptAmbrosia was the food of the Olympian gods — anyone who consumed it became immortal, but mortals...
Anagnorisis
conceptAnagnorisis was the moment of recognition in tragedy — when the hero discovers the truth about...
Aporia
conceptA state of philosophical puzzlement where contradictory arguments seem equally strong.
Apotropaic
conceptApotropaic rituals and symbols were used to ward off evil, bad luck, and malicious spirits — from...
Arete
conceptArete was the Greek concept of excellence in all things — not merely moral virtue but the...
Arete (Concept)
conceptExcellence or virtue — the quality of being the best possible version of what something is.
Argonauts
conceptThe Argonauts were the band of heroes who sailed with Jason on the Argo to retrieve the Golden...