See the wisdom of the ancient and medieval times.

• A. Perennialism
• B. Existentialism
• C. Pragmatism
• D. Reconstructionism

Answer: (A)

This item examines perennialism, which holds that education should transmit enduring truths found in the great works of the ancient and medieval world. The idea is to build a stable, universal curriculum around timeless questions about truth, virtue, and wisdom, guiding students through classic texts that have shaped human thought across generations. By focusing on these enduring ideas, learners develop character and a lasting understanding of the human condition, rather than chasing trends or immediate practicalities.

Existentialism centers on individual meaning and choice in a modern, subjective world, not on transmitting the universal wisdom of the past. Pragmatism emphasizes learning through experience and the practical consequences of ideas, prioritizing usefulness in real-life problems. Reconstructionism aims to use education to reform society and address social issues. While valuable in its own right, it doesn’t emphasize drawing on ancient and medieval wisdom in the way perennialism does.