By heart

By Heart is a phrase that refers to the process of memorizing something so thoroughly that it can be recalled without conscious thought. The term is often used in the context of learning and education, where students are encouraged to understand concepts rather than simply memorizing them "by heart".

Origin

The phrase "by heart" originates from the belief in ancient times that the heart was the seat of memory and emotions. This belief was prevalent in many cultures, including the Greeks and Romans. The heart was considered the core of a person's being, and thus, to know something "by heart" meant to know it at the core of one's being.

Usage

In modern times, the phrase "by heart" is used to describe the process of learning something so well that it becomes a part of one's subconscious memory. This can apply to a wide range of things, from memorizing a poem or a piece of music, to learning a set of facts or a process. The phrase is often used in the context of education, where it is generally encouraged to understand concepts rather than simply memorizing them "by heart".

Criticism

While learning by heart can be useful in certain situations, such as memorizing a speech or a performance, it has been criticized in the context of education. Critics argue that rote learning does not promote understanding and critical thinking, and that it can lead to a superficial understanding of the subject matter. Instead, they advocate for more active learning strategies that promote understanding and application of knowledge.

See also

• Rote learning
• Memory
• Education