First edition of an influential, but now nearly forgotten, scientifically grounded monograph on the education of children by the Swiss philosopher and mathematician Jean-Pierre de Crousaz (1663-1750). This systematic work forms an important link between pedagogy in the 17th and in the 18th century.
One of Crousaz's main principles is that virtue is the most important goal of education, because intellect without virtue is useless and dangerous. The book includes an exposition of the qualities of a good father, advice on how to give the first lessons, explanations on the methods to expand the knowledge of young children, the use of knowledge, how to teach geography, history and ethics, advice on instructing children in religion and develop their piety, the use of reason in matters of religion and morals, discussions about recreation and travel, etc.
Both title-pages slightly foxed, binding a bit rubbed, primarily the spines, with the heads chipped. Very good copy. STCN (4 copies); cf. W. Los, Opvoeding tot mens en burger: pedagogiek als cultuurkritiek in Nederland in de 18e eeuw (2005).