Paulo Freire and directivity
The aim of this study is to analyze Paulo Freire's trajectory in his works from 1959 to 1968, with emphasis on the discussions surrounding the "directivity" or "non-directivity" of the educational process. The author, as early as the 1990s, defined that every educational practice, whether authoritarian or democratic, possesses an element of direction from the educator. However, when this directivity begins to restrict the creative, formulating, and questioning competence of the learner, it transforms into manipulation and authoritarianism. Nevertheless, the path that led him to this understanding presents reflections that are grounded not only in different theoretical sources but also in praxis, which led to constant formulations and reformulations. In Educação e Atualidade Brasileira (1959), influenced by the developmentalist nationalism formulated by the Superior Institute of Brazilian Studies, Freire presents a thoughtlessly directive thesis. However, in Educação como prática da liberdade (1965), under the influence of personalism, existentialist philosophy, and Catholic groups influenced by non-directive ideals, he begins to problematize directivity. This problematization deepens in Pedagogia do oprimido (1968), but with original contours within a new theoretical framework (Marxist). The question now turns to the problem of "liberating propaganda" promoted by revolutionary leaders who "deposit" the belief in freedom in the oppressed, that is, employ domesticating techniques aiming for liberation. Finally, considering that directivity, as well as its relationship with the figure of Paulo Freire, has recently been the subject of public debates in the Brazilian scenario, an analysis of this debate within the institutional scope will be provided in the appendix.