In this article, the author talks about the texts of Jacques Derrida and Dewey. The texts of Jacques Derrida seem inextricably connected to the word deconstruction, yet, Derrida insists, "The word "deconstruction," like all other words, acquires its value only from its inscription in a chain of possible substitutions." The author argues that explicating the texts of Derrida is exhausting enough; doing the same for the often-misunderstood texts of Dewey multiplies the difficulty. Combining them so as to reflect each critically in the mirror of the "other" seems almost foolhardy; like fools. For Derrida there is no master word, no ultimate foundation of meaning that must end the series of substitutions. In this article, the author begins within texts signed "Jacques Derrida" where he believes it fruitful for educators to begin. He begins with a discussion of "differance" and the ethical, political, and institutional nature of Derrida's thought. He then talks about Derrida, Dewey and the double bind of postmodern criticism. (Contains 2 notes.)