This Encyclopedia entry explores the historical, philosophical, and sociological roots of pedagogy, tracing its origins to the Ancient Greek concept of paidagogos and examining its dual legacy as both a mechanism of social control and a path to personal development. It distinguishes between totalized paternalistic pedagogy, which imposes predetermined curricula, assessments, and authority on students, and fiduciary pedagogy, which supports self-education by respecting the educatee’s autonomy and authorial agency. The entry critically analyzes forms of paternalistic coercion—curricular, motivational, and assessment-related—while presenting fiduciary pedagogy as a consensual, trust-based relationship between educator and educatee. Drawing on historical examples, contemporary educational theories, and cases from democratic and self-directed learning, the entry examines how transitions from paternalistic to fiduciary approaches affirm the educatee’s authorial agency and dignity. It concludes by addressing the limitations and ethical dilemmas of both paradigms and calls for a pluralistic understanding of pedagogy that prioritizes freedom, trust, dignity, and dialogue.