Term Paper Part 3

Phaedrus is described almost immediately as a man with a vast knowledge not only academic but philosophical knowledge as well. He is a truly wise man. This wisdom and knowledge however is not free, he attained this through passion, a passion for learning. His passion was so strong that it ultimately led to his demise but it did however allow Phaedrus to do some good as well. HIs insatiable desire to learn led him to create a revolutionary system of education and it inspired students with a true passion for learning similar to his own.

Phaedrus realized that teaching stems from the teacher’s own desire to learn. He did all that he could to nurture that desire within his students. He strived to teach students who were really interested in expanding their horizons and extending their knowledge base beyond simply receiving a grade. A similar passion is seen through the narrator as he attempts to teach Carl the basics of motorcycle maintenance. His passion for learning every this he possibly can about caring for a motorcycle is so powerful that he strongly desires to nurture that same passion in another person. Unfortunately for the narrator, Carl does not posses a semblance of passion or desire for learning about motorcycle maintenance and for that reason, lack of passion, he is never able to learn anything on the subject. 

Phaedrus tried to inspire his students to be passionate about learning so that they would not have to suffer similar misfortune. He created a system where grades were nonexistent and a students punishment for not studying is his of her deprival of the knowledge that is being offered. Phaedrus relied on his students’ intrinsic motivation to learn and become more well rounded and knowledgeable individuals. He strived to teach students who were motivated to grow intellectually and shared a similar passion. He wanted his students to be motivated to study and learn, not for the grade that they would receive, not for the number of questions right over the number of questions wrong. He wanted students who studied and learned because they knew that is what they want, because they did not want to be left in the dark. He wanted students with a passion to see the light. 

Phaedrus’ system without grades relied on his students’ ability to see the long term rewards of learning and becoming knowledgeable. His students needed to see that it is in their best long term interest not only to learn as much material as possible in order to expand their knowledge base, but also to nurture a passion for learning. Perhaps the latter being most important. A passion for learning is essential in life for a person to be well rounded and well adapted to culture and society.