When Lev Vygotsky: Revolutionary Scientist published, it was unique in
several ways. It presented Vygotsky as a Marxist methodologist, both
locating him in his historical period and delineating how his life and
writings have been a catalyst for a contemporary revolutionary,
practical-critical, psychology. It highlighted Vygotsky's unconventional
view of how development and learning are related and, in doing so,
brought human development into prominence. It introduced important
linkages between Vygotsky's views on thinking and speaking and those of
Wittgenstein, drawing implications for language acquisition and language
learning. And it drew attention to Vygotsky's understanding of the role
of play in child development, and expanded on the significance of play
throughout the lifespan. In these ways, this classic text presented a
more expansive Vygotsky than previously understood.
The Introduction to this Classic Edition will summarize what has
transpired in the years since Lev Vygotsky first published. It will
answer who and where is Vygotsky now? What place does he have in
scholarship in psychology, education, and other fields? How are
practitioners making use of him--to address the challenges of our times,
solve seemingly intractable social problems, revolutionize psychology,
and develop skilled and worldly citizens? What have the authors
accomplished since they first articulated their view of Vygotsky as a
revolutionary scientist?