John dewey and american democracy over a career spanning american history from the 1880s to the 1950s john dewey sought not only to forge a persuasive argument for his conviction that democracy is freedom but also to realize his democratic ideals through political activism widely considered modern americas most important philosopher dewey . John dewey and american democracy by westbrook robert b robert brett 1950 publication date 1991 topics dewey john 1859 1952 dewey john 1859 1952 . John dewey born october 20 1859 burlington vermont us died june 1 1952 new york new york american philosopher and educator who was a cofounder of the philosophical movement known as pragmatism a pioneer in functional psychology an innovative theorist of democracy and a leader of the progressive movement in education in the united states. John and ken recognize that dewey was the single most influential american philosopher in his lifetime his influence in education was also transformational dewey thought of democracy as the ideal form of human social life but talk of the ideal of anything implies perfection democracy is fine but john doesnt see how its perfect. Unlock this study guide now start your 48 hour free trial to unlock this john dewey and american democracy study guide and get instant access to the following analysis youll also get access