Meaning: Jean Piaget, a renowned Swiss psychologist, is known for his significant contributions to the field of developmental psychology. His quote, "In other words, knowledge of the external world begins with an immediate utilisation of things, whereas knowledge of self is stopped by this purely practical and utilitarian contact," highlights an important aspect of cognitive development, particularly in relation to the interaction between an individual and their external environment. This quote encapsulates Piaget's theory of cognitive development, which emphasizes the active role of the individual in constructing their understanding of the world.

Piaget's quote suggests that the acquisition of knowledge about the external world is initiated through direct interaction and utilization of physical objects and the environment. This aligns with his theory of cognitive development, which posits that children actively construct their understanding of the world through interaction with their surroundings. According to Piaget, children progress through distinct stages of cognitive development, each characterized by specific ways of understanding and interacting with the world.

The concept of "knowledge of self" in Piaget's quote refers to self-awareness and the understanding of one's own cognitive processes and identity. Piaget's assertion that knowledge of self is hindered by "purely practical and utilitarian contact" implies that the focus on practical, external engagement with the environment may limit opportunities for introspection and self-reflection. This notion aligns with Piaget's view that cognitive development involves a balance between assimilating new information from the environment and accommodating this information into one's existing cognitive structures.

Piaget's constructivist approach to cognitive development emphasizes the active role of the individual in constructing knowledge and understanding. According to Piaget, children are not passive recipients of information; rather, they actively engage with their environment, constantly assimilating and accommodating new information to build their cognitive schemas. This process of cognitive development involves a dynamic interplay between the individual and their environment, as they seek to make sense of the world around them.

Furthermore, Piaget's quote can be interpreted in the context of his broader theories on the development of intelligence and the construction of knowledge. He believed that intelligence is not a fixed trait but rather a dynamic process that evolves through interactions with the environment. Piaget's emphasis on the role of practical and utilitarian contact in shaping knowledge of the external world underscores the significance of hands-on experiences and active engagement in the learning process.

In summary, Jean Piaget's quote encapsulates fundamental aspects of his theory of cognitive development, highlighting the dynamic interaction between individuals and their external environment in the construction of knowledge. It underscores the active role of individuals in assimilating and accommodating new information, while also drawing attention to the potential impact of practical engagement on the development of self-awareness and introspective understanding. Piaget's work continues to be influential in the field of developmental psychology, shaping our understanding of how individuals actively construct their knowledge and understanding of the world.