A renowned Victorian English poet whose works, such as "Ulysses" and "The Charge of the Light Brigade," are referenced by Dewey to draw parallels in educational psychology and critique traditional schooling methods.

The 16th president of the United States, whose democratic principles and speeches, notably the "Gettysburg Address," are echoed by Dewey in advocating for education that centers on experience.

An Egyptian mathematician and astronomer known for his geocentric theory, used by Dewey as an analogy for how complex traditional beliefs can persist over simpler, progressive ideas.

A Polish astronomer who proposed the heliocentric model, referenced by Dewey to illustrate how simpler ideas can face resistance when challenging orthodox views.

A foundational Greek philosopher who established the Academy and the Socratic method; his ideas on freedom are invoked by Dewey to emphasize the importance of self-control in education.

A prominent Greek philosopher and student of Plato, cited by Dewey in discussions about basing education on enduring logical concepts called "first principles."

A medieval philosopher who combined Greek philosophy with Catholic theology, mentioned by Dewey to discuss the call for foundational principles in education.

A British zoologist and statistician known for popularizing science and math, whose book Mathematics for the Million is recommended by Dewey to connect math to students' experiences.