Which term describes the concept of a child being a "blank slate" at birth?

The concept of a child being a "blank slate" at birth is best described by the term "tabula rasa." This term, which originates from Latin, translates to "blank slate" and refers to the idea that individuals are born without any built-in mental content. Instead, they acquire knowledge and characteristics through experience and sensory perception as they grow. This notion aligns with the ideas of philosophers like John Locke, who argued that the mind at birth is a blank slate upon which experience writes.

In contrast, the other terms present different perspectives on human nature. "Original sin" typically pertains to a theological doctrine suggesting that humans are born with a tendency toward sin inherited from Adam and Eve. "Innate purity" suggests that children are born inherently good and pure, which contrasts with the "blank slate" idea as it implies some pre-existing moral quality. "Emergent literacy" refers to the skills and knowledge concerning reading and writing that develop in children before they actually learn to read and write formally, focusing more on language development than on the concept of being a blank slate.