Which philosopher proposed the idea that a child is born with a mind like a blank slate?

The idea that a child is born with a mind like a blank slate is attributed to John Locke, an English philosopher from the 17th century. Locke's concept, known as "tabula rasa," suggests that individuals are shaped by their experiences and interactions with the world, rather than being born with innate ideas or knowledge. According to this theory, children develop through their sensory experiences and the environment around them, emphasizing the importance of education and social context in shaping thinking and behavior. This view contrasts with other educational theorists, such as Jean Piaget or Lev Vygotsky, who focused more on developmental stages and sociocultural influences rather than the idea of a void requiring filling through experience.