- A particular way of thinking, set of beliefs, or intellectual tradition shared by a group of people, especially concerning a specific subject or field.
Explanation
Origin
- Metaphorical use comparing a shared intellectual viewpoint or methodology to an actual educational institution ('school').
- Used since at least the mid-19th century to describe distinct philosophical, artistic, scientific, or academic traditions (e.g., the Frankfurt School, the Chicago School of economics).
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- That camp. / Their camp.
- Their way of thinking.
- How they see it.
- Their vibe on it.
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Not typically used to describe a school of thought itself, though one might vulgarly dismiss a particular school: That whole school of thought is bullshit.
Milder/Standard:
- Perspective.
- Viewpoint.
- Approach.
- Theory.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in formal and semi-formal contexts, especially academic, intellectual, or analytical discussions.
- Sounds natural when discussing theories, strategies, philosophies, or methodologies.
- Might sound overly formal or academic in very casual conversation about everyday topics.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Learners should understand this refers to a figurative 'school' of ideas, not a physical building or educational program (though it can originate from one).
Examples
- There are several schools of thought on how best to approach this economic problem.
- One school of thought suggests that motivation is primarily intrinsic, while another emphasizes external rewards.
- She belongs to the minimalist school of thought when it comes to design.
Dialogue
Professor: When analyzing this poem, we see different critical approaches. One school of thought focuses entirely on the text itself, ignoring the author's biography.
Student: That's New Criticism, right? What's the opposing school of thought?
Professor: Good question. Another prominent school, biographical criticism, argues that understanding the author's life is crucial to interpreting the work.
Social Media Examples
- LinkedIn Post: Exploring the different schools of thought on leadership in hybrid teams. What works best for you: servant leadership, transformational, or something else? #leadership #management #futureofwork
- Forum Debate: User X: My approach aligns with the behavioral school of thought in psychology. User Y: Interesting, I lean more towards the cognitive school. Let's compare notes. #psychology #debate
Response Patterns
- Interesting. What's the alternative school of thought?
- Which school of thought do you subscribe to?
- Can you elaborate on that particular school of thought?
- Okay, I understand that perspective.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After identifying a school of thought:
- Listeners might ask for a definition or explanation of that school.
- They might ask about competing or contrasting schools of thought.
- They might inquire about the evidence or reasoning supporting that school.
Conversation Starter
- No.
- Typically used within a discussion to categorize or compare different intellectual positions or approaches.
Intonation
- Neutral, often academic or analytical tone.
- Emphasis usually on school and thought, and often on the descriptor (e.g., the MINIMALIST school of thought). SCHOOL of THOUGHT.
Generation Differences
- More common among those engaged in academic, intellectual, or professional fields where different theories or approaches are discussed. Less common in casual chat across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Standard usage across major English-speaking regions.