St. John Bosco, an Italian priest and educator of the nineteenth century, deeply valued the function of literature in character formation. He believed that fastidiously chosen studying materials might domesticate advantage, encourage religion, and promote mental progress amongst younger individuals. His instructional system, often known as the Preventive System, emphasised cause, faith, and loving-kindness, and included healthful literature as a significant part of this strategy. For instance, he established libraries and studying circles, encouraging engagement with biographies of saints, historic narratives, and different edifying works.
This emphasis on helpful studying stemmed from Bosco’s conviction that the thoughts, like a backyard, wants cautious cultivation. Nourishing it with uplifting content material strengthens ethical character, fosters a love of studying, and offers a constructive different to doubtlessly dangerous influences. This strategy proved extremely efficient in his work with deprived youth in Turin, the place he offered training and steerage via his oratory and faculties. His understanding of the formative energy of literature continues to resonate with educators at present.