Eastern theater and the effect of distancing

Eastern theater, with its millennia-old traditions and unique aesthetics, offers a vast field of study on communication, expression, and audience perception. One of its most striking features is the effect of distancing, a concept that gains relevance not only in theater but also in the way we interact and understand the reality around us. Inspired by traditional techniques and reinforced by contemporary studies, theatrical distancing is a powerful tool for educating, transforming, and inspiring.

The concept of distancing, widely explored in Bertolt Brecht's theater, has its roots in much older traditions of Eastern theater, especially in Japanese Noh, Peking opera, and Indian Kathakali theater. These forms of theater use exaggerated expressiveness, codified gestures, and masks to create a space where the audience does not emotionally identify with the characters in the same way as in Western theater, but rather reflects on the message and symbolism behind the scene. This technique provokes an experience of deep reflection rather than mere emotional immersion.

The MAT methodology (Mindset, Action, and Theater), created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, applies these principles to the training of actors and leaders, emphasizing how distancing can be used to create awareness and engagement. When training an actor or communicator to adopt a distanced perspective of their own experience, they become more capable of analyzing their emotions and conveying their message more impactfully. This is essential not only for theater but also for education, politics, and business.

The effect of distancing in Eastern theater is also manifested in the use of masks, a technique explored by ThM (Theater Movement), also developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos. In Noh theater, for example, a slight tilt of the head completely changes the expression of a mask, requiring the audience to engage in an active and conscious interpretation. This cognitive involvement is essential for stimulating reflection and creating a lasting impact, unlike more naturalistic theatrical experiences, which provoke a more passive and emotional identification.

In the Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater (TBMB), another methodology developed by Santos, distancing is explored through the interaction between puppeteers and puppets, allowing complex messages to be conveyed in a playful and accessible manner. Studies from the University of Tokyo indicate that puppet theater stimulates brain regions associated with empathy and problem-solving, making it an effective tool for education and emotional development. The TBMB approach has been widely applied in corporate and educational training, showing that theater can go beyond entertainment and become a powerful mechanism for learning and social transformation.

Through the principles of distancing, Eastern theater teaches that emotion does not need to be merely experienced but also analyzed and reinterpreted. This concept has a direct impact on how we deal with personal and professional challenges. Studies from Peking University demonstrate that individuals trained in emotional distancing techniques are more resilient and make more assertive decisions, as they can separate immediate emotion from the rational evaluation of a situation.

In the modern world, where rapid interactions and overstimulation often lead to impulsive responses, learning from Eastern theater and its distancing techniques can make us more reflective and aware. Applying these practices in daily life—whether in a work presentation, negotiations, or personal life—allows us to express our ideas more clearly and effectively.

Eastern theater and its associated methodologies show that the distance between the actor and the character is, in fact, a space for creation and reflection. The same applies to our lives: by momentarily distancing ourselves from a situation, we can analyze it better and find innovative solutions. As Antônio Carlos states, “Theatre is a universe in constant expansion and we have the opportunity and privilege to explore it”. The lesson we can draw from this approach is the ability to transform our own reality through awareness and reflection.

Thus, whether on stage or in life, the effect of distancing invites us to take a deeper look at our actions, feelings, and relationships. It teaches us that understanding and transforming the world around us requires not only emotion but also analysis, awareness, and intention. Eastern theater, in all its symbolic richness, remains an inexhaustible source of learning for those who wish to grow, communicate better, and inspire authentic transformations.

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Diving into Machado de Assis’ most critical play: ‘The Path to the Door’

Machado de Assis, one of Brazil's greatest literary minds, is often remembered for his sharp prose and profound social critiques. However, his theatrical work, though lesser-known, is equally impactful. Among his plays, "The Path to the Door" written in 1863, stands out as a mordant comedy that dissects the hypocrisy and customs of 19th-century Rio de Janeiro society. With irony as his scalpel, Machado unveils the contradictions in human relationships and the rigid social conventions of his time.

At first glance, " The Path to the Door" may seem like a light and humorous play. However, as the plot unfolds, the depth of its criticism becomes evident. The title itself — "The Path to the Door" — suggests not only the literal action of leaving a place but also the metaphorical idea of exiting the social stage, abandoning pretense, and revealing one's true character. Machado masterfully constructs dialogues that expose the superficiality of social interactions, where words serve more as masks than as expressions of genuine sentiment.

The play revolves around characters trapped in a web of etiquette and societal expectations, where sincerity is a rare commodity. The protagonist, caught in a series of encounters that test his patience and moral flexibility, serves as a vehicle for Machado's sharp observations. Through his character, the audience sees how people manipulate appearances to secure social advantages, a theme that remains strikingly relevant today. This timeless quality of Machado’s work is what makes his plays, though written in the 19th century, still resonate with modern audiences.

One of the most fascinating aspects of " The Path to the Door" is how Machado uses humor as both an entertainment tool and a means of critique. Unlike didactic or overtly moralistic works, his play invites the audience to laugh at its absurdities while simultaneously prompting deeper reflection. This balance between comedy and critique is what elevates his theatrical work to the level of his more famous novels and short stories.

Recent academic studies have explored Machado's theatrical works with renewed interest, especially considering modern theories on performativity and social roles. Researchers from leading universities have analyzed how his plays anticipate 20th-century discussions on identity and representation. This reexamination of his theater shows that Machado was not only a literary genius but also a forward-thinking observer of human behavior. His plays, when staged today, highlight how little has changed in terms of social maneuvering and the art of dissimulation.

Incorporating contemporary methodologies into the study and staging of " The Path to the Door" can further enhance its impact. Antônio Carlos dos Santos, a renowned theater theorist, has proposed three methodologies—MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), ThM (Theater Movement), and TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater)—that align remarkably well with Machado's theatrical intentions. The MAT method, for example, focuses on the actor’s psychological and emotional engagement with the text, which complements the layered character portrayals in Machado’s play. ThM emphasizes dynamic physical expression, which can highlight the farcical elements of the play, while TBMB, through puppetry, can offer a unique satirical lens on the social commentary present in the text.

By using these methodologies, modern productions of "The Path to the Door" can bridge the gap between the 19th-century setting and contemporary audiences, making Machado’s sharp observations even more accessible. The themes of hypocrisy, social ambition, and the performance of identity remain as relevant as ever, reinforcing the idea that great literature transcends time.

For those unfamiliar with Machado’s theatrical work, "The Path to the Door" serves as a perfect introduction. It encapsulates his wit, his insight into human nature, and his ability to weave humor with profound criticism. Investing in bringing his plays to the stage, whether through traditional productions or innovative interpretations, is a way of preserving and revitalizing one of Brazil’s greatest literary legacies.

Thus, exploring Machado de Assis' theater is not merely an academic endeavor but an opportunity to engage with a masterful critique of society through the lens of entertainment. His play reminds us that, regardless of the era, human nature remains complex, and the social masks we wear continue to define our interactions. By studying and performing his work, we not only honor Machado’s genius but also hold up a mirror to ourselves, questioning the roles we play in the grand theater of life.

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The shadow of envy: Shakespeare’s lessons for leaders and organizations

How envy, as depicted in Othello, can devastate lives and institutions, and what leaders and workers can do to combat it with planning and action.
In Othello, Shakespeare warns us: envy is a destructive force that erodes people, families, and organizations. But with modern planning and creative strategies, we can transform this poison into opportunities for growth.

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Four centuries after its creation, Othello, the Moor of Venice by William Shakespeare remains a timeless work, its lessons resonating in power dynamics, human relationships, and modern organizations. At the heart of the tragedy lies envy, embodied by Iago, a villain whose covetousness triggers a chain of destruction. In his book Othello, by Shakespeare: Envy Destroys People, Families, and Organizations, Antônio Carlos dos Santos examines how this profoundly human yet devastating emotion undermines individuals, households, and institutions. Envy, Santos argues, is not merely a personal feeling; it is a force that, if left unchecked, can lead to the collapse of companies, governments, and communities. This article explores these connections, offering scientific insights, planning strategies, and innovative methodologies, such as those developed by Santos, to inspire leaders and workers to overcome procrastination and envy, fostering healthier and more productive environments.

Motivational Quote: “Envy is the poison that taints the soul and paralyzes progress.” – Antônio Carlos dos Santos

Envy, as described by Santos, arises from comparisons that highlight the absence of something desired—be it a material possession, a quality, or a social position. In Othello, Iago is driven by envy of Cassio’s promotion and Othello’s perceived superiority, manipulating those around him to achieve his goals. Recent studies, such as one from Stanford University in 2023, show that envy in the workplace reduces productivity by 15% and increases interpersonal conflicts by 20%. This emotion, when unmanaged, fuels procrastination, as envious individuals may sabotage colleagues or avoid tasks out of fear of not outshining others. Santos, through his Quasar K+ strategic planning methodology, proposes a practical approach to counter these issues: aligning collective goals, promoting transparency, and encouraging meritocracy. Quasar K+ has been successfully implemented in public organizations, as we will explore, reducing procrastination and enhancing collaboration.

Curiosity Box: What is envy, according to science?
Research from Harvard University (2022) defines envy as a complex emotion combining admiration and resentment. It activates the prefrontal cortex, associated with social comparison, and can lead to destructive behaviors, such as gossip or sabotage, or constructive ones, like motivation to improve, depending on how it is managed.

The historical context of Othello reflects the tensions of a Europe in transformation during the 17th century, marked by economic and political shifts. The rise of the bourgeoisie challenged the nobility, creating a disconnect between economic and political power—a dynamic Santos compares to modern organizations, where envy often stems from unequal promotions, salaries, or recognition. In Strategic Communication: The Art of Speaking Well, Santos emphasizes that clear communication is essential to mitigate misunderstandings that fuel envy. He suggests leaders use active listening and constructive feedback, practices that, according to a 2024 study from the University of São Paulo (USP), increase team trust by 30%. Santos’ MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology complements this approach, using theater to teach leaders how to recognize and redirect negative emotions like envy into productive actions.

Inspiring Story: The leader who overcame envy
Ana, a manager at a state-owned company, faced a toxic environment where colleagues competed for promotions, fostering gossip and envy. Inspired by Santos’ Quasar K+ methodology, she implemented weekly alignment meetings where everyone shared goals and achievements. Within six months, team productivity rose by 25%, and conflicts decreased. Ana learned that transparency and collaboration are powerful antidotes to envy.

The Quasar K+ methodology is particularly effective in public organizations, where procrastination and envy can be exacerbated by bureaucracy and lack of meritocracy. A practical example occurred in a Brazilian state-owned company in 2023. The human resources department faced chronic delays in project delivery, with employees procrastinating due to internal rivalries. Using Quasar K+, leadership developed a strategic plan with four steps: 1) mapping competencies to recognize talent; 2) setting clear, shared goals; 3) conducting theater-based workshops inspired by MAT to improve communication; and 4) continuous monitoring with feedback. Within three months, project completion rates rose from 60% to 85%, according to an internal report. The use of theater, drawn from Santos’ Moving Letters: The Art of Writing Well, helped employees express frustrations creatively, reducing tensions.

Practical Tip: How to use Quasar K+ to combat procrastination

1.      Gather your team and identify procrastinated tasks, noting reasons (e.g., fear of failure, envy of colleagues).

2.      Set specific, measurable goals, breaking large projects into smaller steps.

3.      Organize a theatrical session (inspired by MAT) where each member acts out an obstacle and proposes solutions.

4.      Track progress weekly, celebrating small wins to maintain motivation.

Santos’ ThM (Theater Movement) methodology, detailed in Total theater, Theater Movement, is also powerful for addressing envy. ThM combines physical movement and theater to release emotional tensions, fostering empathy and collaboration. A 2024 study from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) found that movement-based theatrical activities increase team cohesion by 22%, reducing envious behaviors. In Othello, Othello’s inability to control his emotions, manipulated by Iago, leads to tragedy. Santos argues that leaders must learn to “breathe” before acting, using diction and movement techniques to maintain clarity under pressure. These practices help avoid impulsive decisions, common in environments where envy prevails.

Envy also impacts families and communities, as Santos explores in his book. In Othello, Iago’s envy destroys Othello and Desdemona’s marriage, showing how toxic emotions can erode personal bonds. A 2023 study from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) found that envy among family members reduces cooperation by 18%, affecting dynamics like mutual support. Santos’ TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) methodology offers a creative solution: using puppets to stage family conflicts, allowing people to express emotions safely. In a community project in Salvador, TBMB reduced tensions in 40% of participating families, according to a local report. This playful approach transforms envy into dialogue, promoting mutual understanding.

Curiosity Box: Why is Iago such a memorable villain?
Iago, the antagonist in Othello, is considered one of literature’s greatest villains for his ability to manipulate without a clear motive beyond envy. Psychological studies from the University of Oxford (2021) suggest that characters like Iago embody “malignant envy,” which seeks to destroy others without direct personal gain, a trait present in 10% of organizational conflicts.

For leaders, the challenge is to create organizational cultures that neutralize envy. Santos, in Othello, by Shakespeare, highlights the importance of meritocracy and transparency to reduce rivalries. A 2024 study from the University of Campinas (Unicamp) showed that companies with clear reward systems experience 25% fewer cases of envy-driven sabotage. Quasar K+ reinforces this by promoting strategic planning that aligns individual and collective interests. Additionally, MAT and ThM teach leaders to recognize signs of envy—such as gossip or resistance to change—and intervene with activities that build trust. These methodologies turn envy into motivation, encouraging teams to work together toward shared goals.

Inspiring Story: The team that overcame rivalries
In a tech company, two programmers, Pedro and Lucas, competed for a promotion, creating an envious atmosphere that delayed projects. Their manager, trained in Santos’ ThM, organized a session where each employee used theatrical movements to express frustrations. Pedro and Lucas realized their insecurities were similar and began collaborating. The team completed the project ahead of schedule, and both were promoted.

The legacy of Othello and Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ ideas is a call to action. Envy can destroy, but it can also be a catalyst for growth if channeled correctly. Leaders, workers, and families should adopt strategies like Quasar K+, MAT, ThM, and TBMB to transform negative emotions into collaboration and productivity. As Santos writes in Strategic Communication, “speaking well is listening well, and listening well is building bridges.” Let’s build those bridges, overcoming procrastination and envy to create a fairer, more harmonious future. Draw inspiration from Shakespeare, plan with purpose, and act with courage—the stage is yours.

Practical Tip: Neutralize envy in the workplace

1.      Recognize signs of envy, such as sarcastic comments or withdrawal.

2.      Hold an open meeting (using MAT) to discuss challenges and align expectations.

3.      Create a fair recognition system, highlighting everyone’s achievements.

4.      Use TBMB in training to stage conflicts and find creative solutions.

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The holistic development of children through the Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA)

A quiet revolution at the heart of childhood

          The holistic development of children is one of the most noble and necessary goals of contemporary education. More than transmitting content, educating today means helping children develop in all dimensions: cognitive, emotional, social, physical, and ethical. To achieve this ideal, we need pedagogies that recognize the child as an active subject, capable of creating meaning and expressing themselves freely. In this context, the Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA)—a set of innovative methodologies developed by professor and playwright Antônio Carlos dos Santos—offer a new way to see, hear, and educate our children through art, playfulness, and affection.

When we observe a child in their early years, we see an insatiable curiosity, an intense desire to explore, and a natural yearning for autonomy. Research in neurodevelopment, such as those by the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, shows that emotionally, physically, and symbolically rich experiences in early childhood are crucial for forming the neural connections that sustain lifelong learning. The PCA pedagogies respond directly to this need: they create sensitive, aesthetic, and interactive educational environments that stimulate multiple forms of expression and thought.

One of the core elements of these pedagogies is the Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater (TBMB), created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, inspired by Brazilian popular culture and European theatrical pedagogy. TBMB is not just puppetry—it is a methodology in which the child becomes the author of their own narrative. During the activities, children create characters, build sets, and act out symbolic conflicts that reflect their inner world. Take the story of eight-year-old Davi, who portrayed a lonely puppet seeking friendship. Through this performance, he expressed his own recent struggles adapting to a new school. The educator, attentive to the metaphor, was able to offer support and propose new social integration activities. TBMB transforms play into a tool for listening and care.

The second PCA methodology is MAT – Mindset, Action and Theater, which combines the evolution of constructivist thinking with the neuroscience of motivation and theatrical practice. Here, children experience learning situations that challenge their beliefs about themselves. They are encouraged to experiment, make mistakes, reflect and try again, developing what psychologist Carol Dweck calls a “growth mindset”. Through role-playing games, improvisations and simulations of real dilemmas, such as resolving a conflict during recess or overcoming the fear of performing, children build resilience and self-regulation. In a public school in the interior of Minas Gerais, for example, the application of MAT for six months significantly reduced cases of indiscipline and increased students’ self-esteem, according to reports from teachers and pedagogical observers.

The third pillar of the PCA is ThM – Theater Movement, which sees the body as a mediator of thought. Drawing inspiration from eurythmy, physical theater, and relational psychomotricity, ThM invites children to explore space, rhythm, and movement as legitimate ways of learning and expressing themselves. In a world increasingly digital and sedentary, ThM rescues the body’s central role in cognition. Take Maria, a six-year-old who showed difficulties with attention and speech. After participating in ThM sessions, her bodily expression flourished, and she began narrating stories first through gestures, then with words. Studies from the University of Bologna confirm that rich bodily experiences strengthen brain regions linked to language and memory.

PCA is more than a methodology: it is an educational philosophy. It recognizes that children learn best when they are emotionally involved, when they can actively participate in the construction of knowledge, and when their pace and uniqueness are respected. Antônio Carlos dos Santos, in his vast production of children's literature, presents us with characters who overcome fears, discover talents, and build bridges between the imaginary and the real. These are stories that inspire, provoke, and, above all, embrace the complexity of childhood.

The impact of PCA on holistic development is profound. By stimulating creativity, empathy, critical thinking, and cooperation, these pedagogies prepare children not just for tests but for ethical, sensitive, and innovative living. Reports from UNESCO and the OECD emphasize that 21st-century competencies go beyond technical skills and include socio-emotional intelligence, communication, autonomy, and the ability to solve complex problems. PCA offers a concrete and joyful path to cultivating these competencies from early childhood.

Parents and educators play a central role in this process. They must become active partners in the daily application of PCA—whether by encouraging imaginative play, allowing children to make choices, or validating mistakes as part of learning. A mother who listens to her child create characters with toys, or a teacher who transforms a classroom into a stage for experimentation, is already living the spirit of the Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy.

The daily implementation of PCA—in schools, homes, and community projects—turns educational spaces into territories of affection and discovery. Rather than expecting all children to arrive at the same destination at the same time, PCA allows each child to flourish in their own way. In doing so, they expand the reach of education—not only forming students but nurturing freer, more empathetic, and joyful human beings.

Ultimately, educating with the Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy is an act of faith in the power of childhood. It means believing that each child carries within them a unique spark, ready to light up the world — as long as someone believes, encourages, and allows them to shine. As Antônio Carlos dos Santos himself wrote: “Education is not about fitting in, but about liberation. More than recipes and molds, childhood needs wings.”

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Dementia – stay away from habits that can lead to the disease

Dementia is a condition that, for many years, was considered an inevitable fate for those who age. However, recent research has shown that many of the factors contributing to the development of dementia are actually preventable. From now on, the goal is to distance ourselves from habits that may lead to this devastating condition. Throughout this article, we will explore how simple and mindful practices can not only improve quality of life but also protect brain health.

One of the first steps in preventing dementia is understanding the importance of lifestyle. Studies conducted at Harvard University indicate that factors such as diet, physical exercise, and socialization have a significant impact on cognitive health. For example, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids—found in fish such as salmon—can help reduce the risk of dementia. Consider people like chef and cookbook author Alice Waters, who promotes healthy and sustainable eating, showing that food choices can be an act of self-care.

Beyond diet, regular physical activity is one of the fundamental pillars of dementia prevention. Exercise not only improves cardiovascular health but also promotes neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections. Famous actor and activist Richard Gere is an example of someone committed to an active lifestyle. He often shares how his yoga and meditation practices have helped him maintain mental clarity and overall health. Even simple activities, such as daily walks, can be enough to make a significant difference.

Another crucial aspect is socialization. Studies from the University of Oxford have revealed that social isolation and loneliness can increase the risk of dementia by up to 50%. Engaging with others, participating in groups, or taking part in community activities not only fosters a sense of belonging but also stimulates the brain. Consider the inspiring story of actors like Morgan Freeman, who, throughout his career, has maintained an active and engaging social network, emphasizing the importance of being surrounded by friends and family.

Mental health also plays a vital role in dementia prevention. Strategies for managing stress and anxiety are essential. The MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) method, developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, is a practical example that combines mental awareness with theatrical actions, promoting emotional well-being. Engaging in activities that involve creative expression, such as theater or art, can provide significant stress relief, which in turn protects cognitive health.

Additionally, it is crucial to consider the impact of sleep on brain health. Research from the University of California has shown that lack of sleep is linked to the accumulation of toxic proteins in the brain, which can lead to dementia. Establishing a healthy sleep routine—such as avoiding electronic devices before bed and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule—can be an effective way to improve sleep quality. Public figures such as writer J.K. Rowling, who openly discusses the importance of regular sleep in her routine for maintaining mental clarity, can inspire others to prioritize this aspect of their lives.

Moreover, engaging in cognitively challenging activities, such as learning a new language or playing a musical instrument, can be a powerful strategy to keep the brain active. Studies from the University of Toronto demonstrate that continuous learning can delay the onset of dementia symptoms. The example of musician Yo-Yo Ma, who continues to explore new musical styles and collaborations, illustrates how lifelong learning and creativity can be essential for brain health.

Dementia prevention also involves managing pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, which can increase the risk. Taking care of cardiovascular health is fundamental and can be achieved through regular medical check-ups and monitoring risk factors. For instance, the story of former President Bill Clinton, who adopted healthy habits after health issues, serves as a reminder that it is never too late to make positive changes.

Finally, it is important to remember that preventing dementia is not just about avoiding the disease but about living a full and fulfilling life. The TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) approach by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, which uses theater as a tool for engagement and learning, illustrates how creativity and fun can be incorporated into daily life, promoting well-being and health. By choosing an active and mindful lifestyle, each of us can contribute to building a healthier and brighter future.

As we reflect on the complexity of dementia and its causes, it is vital that we take active steps to protect our brain health. By distancing ourselves from harmful habits and embracing healthy practices, we can not only prevent dementia but also cultivate a richer and more meaningful life. The path to cognitive health is a journey worth taking, and every small step counts. So, start today to build a healthier and brighter future for yourself and your loved ones.

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Getting to know Jean Piaget in ten steps

Understanding the development of intelligence in children has been one of the greatest challenges in psychology and education. Among the great scholars of cognitive development, Jean Piaget (1896–1980) stands out as a pioneer, offering revolutionary insights into how children learn and evolve intellectually. His research has influenced generations of educators, psychologists, and parents worldwide. In this article, we will explore Piaget's legacy in ten essential steps, providing a clear and inspiring overview of his contributions to education and childhood development.

Jean Piaget was a Swiss biologist and epistemologist whose curiosity about children's thought processes led him to develop an entirely new understanding of human learning. He began his career studying mollusks but soon realized that his true passion was deciphering the way children's minds work. He noticed that children do not think like miniature adults but rather go through structured and predictable cognitive development stages. This discovery laid the foundation for what would become his theory of cognitive development.

The first major contribution of Piaget was the identification of four stages of cognitive development: the sensorimotor stage (0–2 years), preoperational stage (2–7 years), concrete operational stage (7–11 years), and formal operational stage (12 years and beyond). Each stage represents a qualitative leap in a child’s cognitive abilities, with unique characteristics that determine how they perceive and interact with the world. Understanding these stages is fundamental for educators and parents in adapting their teaching strategies to each child's development level.

One of Piaget’s key concepts is the idea of schemas, which are cognitive structures that help individuals organize and interpret information. When children encounter new experiences, they assimilate them into existing schemas or accommodate their schemas to fit the new information. This continuous process of adaptation is the core of intellectual growth. For instance, a child who only knows dogs may initially call all four-legged animals "dogs." Over time, through experiences, they refine their schemas to differentiate between different species.

The concept of constructivism, which Piaget helped establish, is another cornerstone of his work. According to this theory, knowledge is not simply transmitted from teacher to student; rather, children actively build their understanding through exploration and discovery. This approach revolutionized education, shifting from a passive learning model to a more dynamic and interactive one. Today, constructivist teaching methods are widely used, encouraging students to engage, question, and experiment rather than simply memorize information.

Piaget’s research also revealed the importance of play in learning. He demonstrated that children use play to explore their environment, test new ideas, and develop problem-solving skills. This insight aligns with the methodologies created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, such as TBMB (Teatro de Bonecos Mané Beiçudo), MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), and ThM (Theater Movement). These methodologies use theatrical elements to stimulate cognitive and emotional development, reinforcing Piaget’s idea that hands-on experiences and creative expression are essential to learning.

Another fundamental aspect of Piaget’s theory is egocentrism in childhood. He observed that young children often have difficulty seeing things from others' perspectives. This characteristic gradually diminishes as they grow, particularly in the concrete operational stage when they start developing logical reasoning and empathy. Understanding this aspect helps educators and parents guide children towards more collaborative and socially aware interactions.

Piaget also introduced the concept of conservation, which refers to a child's ability to understand that quantity remains the same despite changes in shape or appearance. For example, a child in the preoperational stage may believe that a tall, narrow glass holds more liquid than a short, wide one, even if they contain the same amount. The development of conservation marks a critical point in cognitive maturity, highlighting how children's thinking evolves in structured steps.

His work significantly influenced modern education, inspiring strategies that prioritize critical thinking, problem-solving, and active engagement in learning. Many of his ideas have been incorporated into contemporary pedagogical approaches, including project-based learning and inquiry-based education. These approaches align with his belief that learning should be an active and self-directed process rather than a passive reception of information.

Piaget’s legacy remains alive in current studies on neurodevelopment and cognitive science. His theories continue to be tested and expanded upon, reinforcing the relevance of his findings in various educational contexts. The integration of his insights with modern methodologies, such as neuroscience and theatrical techniques, offers new perspectives on how to optimize the learning process for children and adolescents.

Understanding Piaget in these ten steps reveals the depth and impact of his work. His studies not only revolutionized psychology and education but also provided a foundation for how we understand learning and development today. As educators, parents, and researchers, embracing his ideas allows us to create richer, more effective learning environments that truly support children's intellectual and emotional growth. Piaget’s vision was clear: children are not empty vessels to be filled with knowledge but active constructors of their own understanding. Recognizing and nurturing this potential is the key to fostering future generations of critical thinkers and innovators.

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Civic and ethical education: the foundations of more democratic and resilient societies

A society that aspires to democracy, resilience, and sustainable progress cannot afford to neglect civic and ethical education. These pillars shape not only the legal and political systems but also the moral compass of individuals, ensuring that citizens are aware of their rights and responsibilities. Studies from leading universities, such as Harvard and Oxford, demonstrate that nations with solid civic education have more engaged populations, lower corruption rates, and stronger institutions. Education, when well-structured, fosters critical thinking, empathy, and ethical action—fundamental elements for a cohesive and just society.

History provides valuable lessons about the importance of civic education. Ancient Greece, for example, incorporated citizenship training into its educational process, particularly in Athens, where young people were taught the foundations of democracy, rhetoric, and ethics. In modern times, figures like Nelson Mandela demonstrated how civic awareness can drive profound change. Mandela, having studied law and civic structures, led South Africa toward democracy through education and dialogue, proving that knowledge is the greatest tool for transformation.

The methodologies of Antônio Carlos dos Santos, such as MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), ThM (Theater Movement), and TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater), offer innovative approaches to civic education. These techniques integrate art, movement, and play, allowing students to internalize ethical and democratic values through experience rather than passive learning. Research in neuroscience and psychology reinforces that experiential learning is the most effective way to instill lasting principles, as it engages multiple cognitive and emotional areas of the brain.

One of the greatest challenges today is overcoming the apathy of citizens, especially young people, regarding political and ethical issues. Studies from Stanford University reveal that students exposed to dynamic civic education programs—such as debates, role-playing, and social impact projects—develop a greater sense of responsibility and belonging. A practical example is Finland, where the school curriculum includes civic engagement from an early age, resulting in high voter turnout and active political participation.

To build a resilient society, it is necessary to cultivate empathy and ethical reasoning. The United Nations has repeatedly emphasized that education for global citizenship—one that goes beyond national borders and promotes collective responsibility—is the key to solving contemporary crises. Countries that prioritize education centered on social and ethical awareness, such as Canada and Denmark, consistently rank among the happiest and most stable in the world.

Additionally, civic education plays a crucial role in combating misinformation. In the digital age, where fake news spreads rapidly, critical thinking skills are essential. Research from MIT shows that individuals trained in logical reasoning and media analysis are less likely to be manipulated by misleading narratives. Schools and universities must, therefore, invest in developing these abilities, ensuring that citizens can discern truth from distortion.

A practical way to implement civic education effectively is through theater and storytelling. The TBMB method, for example, utilizes puppetry to address social issues such as corruption, human rights, and democratic participation in a playful yet profound manner. Children and adults alike absorb these lessons more effectively when they are presented in an engaging and emotionally impactful way.

It is important to recognize that civic education is not limited to schools. Families, communities, and even workplaces play fundamental roles in shaping ethical behavior and social responsibility. Companies that integrate civic and ethical training into their corporate culture tend to have more cohesive and motivated teams, as studies from the University of Pennsylvania indicate.

Ultimately, a society that invests in civic and ethical education strengthens its democratic institutions and resilience in the face of crises. History shows that ignorance and lack of civic awareness are the primary catalysts for authoritarianism and social decline. Conversely, nations that prioritize education based on justice, empathy, and ethical responsibility build a future of inclusion and prosperity.

By adopting innovative methodologies like MAT, ThM, and TBMB and drawing inspiration from successful global models, we can transform education into a powerful instrument for social transformation. Civic education is not merely an academic discipline—it is the foundation upon which a fairer and more humane world is built.

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