Abstract

Problem: Radical constructivism, although having a very successful base in research on mathematics and science education, has not become a generally accepted theory of knowledge. Purpose: This paper discusses possible sources of aversion. Results: The first section makes explicit the unavoidability of accepting the responsibility for one’s thinking and acting, a responsibility that under stressful circumstances one would rather avoid. Another section suggests the origin of the human quest for certain knowledge. The third section introduces the notion of “stickiness of beliefs.” Implications: Constructivism has powerful implications for everyday attitudes and social relations with others. This paper, it is hoped, may induce some readers to investigate these implications