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The following extract is from The Gardener and The Carpenter by Alison Gopnik. In this book, developmental psychologist and philosopher Gopnik argues that the current, widely accepted approach to parenting in the 21st century is fundamentally flawed—not only is it based on questionable science, but it also has negative effects on both children and their parents.
“Play is essentially an activity without a clear goal, purpose, or outcome. It allows us to explore various possibilities, including new ways of moving, acting, thinking, or imagining. Play is at the core of an exploration strategy, not an exploitation one, which explains why it is a defining feature of childhood. Humans have an exceptionally long period of childhood, and we retain many childlike traits, both physically and psychologically, into adulthood. Biologists refer to this as neoteny.
Adults, too, have the potential for the same kind of curiosity, exploration, and open-ended play seen in children. Furthermore, we have developed various institutions—sports, art, drama, and science—that formalize play, reflecting the exploration of physical and psychological realms seen in childhood, yet combined with the focus and purpose of adulthood. While work is central to both industrial and post-industrial societies, it often conflicts with care and play. Work affects the availability of resources for both care and play, impacting how society treats these aspects of life.
At times, we view adult play—whether in sports, art, or science—as a mere personal indulgence or a commodity to be purchased. Other times, we see it as a type of work with value only if it produces tangible benefits, such as physical health, moral improvement, technological advancements, or medical innovations. Even scientific research proposals are required to justify their value in terms of expected outcomes. Yet, ironically, play provides long-term benefits for both children and adults, as seen in scientific discovery. These benefits arise because those engaging in play, whether children or adults, are not primarily focused on achieving practical outcomes. The paradox in the explore/exploit dynamic is that to reach various goals over time, one must often avoid immediate goal-seeking.
Just as children need resources and freedom to play without pressure for instant results, we should offer similar support to scientists, artists, and all those who explore human potential.”
