What does it mean to have an open mind? Is it desirable? Are we therefore to avoid its opposite, a closed mind? How shall we proceed in producing an open mind or avoiding its opposite a closed mind? The terms open and closed are commonly used as if the meanings of the terms were clear and the expectant goods associated with being open preferred. This project examines the current literature regarding the above problem and then suggests an alternative exploration of the concept of reification as closed-mindedness. Reification will be defined in its traditional sense with the addition that it implies a statization of concepts or interpretations. It will be argued that such reified interpretations are in effect cognitive closures. The conclusive chapter will show examples and suggest avoidance of this understanding of what it means to be closed-minded.
Closed-mindedness, Openness, Reification, Education
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