Relevance of philosophy in education;
Philosophy stems from the Greek word “philien” and “sophia” meaning “love of wisdom”.
Philosophers promote the idea that we should live the examined life, as Socrates once put it.
Although That means detaching from social personas and social scripts. Also truly thinking for oneself and coming to own one’s own thought–and not simply repeating and being an echo of the voices of others.
Furthermore, In their quest for wisdom, philosophers promote the search for deep understanding and truth. Although they promote the use of careful observation and logic.
In addition the search for wisdom also means contrasting our worldviews with other worldviews and engaging in critical dialog with others who think differently.
Moreover, It means not digging into egocentric and ethnocentric points of view to rest in a cognitive comfort zone.
Also it means accepting ideas, not out of mere loyalty to tradition, or out of fear. but rather, because those ideas are objectively well grounded and rationally justified.
For philosophers, this kind of creative and critical thinking that aims at wisdom is what it means to be fully human.
Although this is tapping into the authentic self; it is also central to learning how to live well.
In addition Wisdom involves inner liberation, existential liberation from the chains of fear, mindless tradition, dogma, prejudice and ignorance.
Wisdom is sought after as a good in itself (an intrinsic good). However Wisdom is also sought after as a tool (an extrinsic good), for wisdom is also central to realizing well-being, to living a life that is good, a life that taps into the best in us.
The ability we have to be fair, open, rational, conscientious.
curious and creative autonomous thinkers and empathic social beings.
Here are some of the relevance of philosophy in education;
1. It helps to boost student’s confidence:
Philosophy gives students the avenue to be able to express themselves freely. This aids their self confidence and the ability to interact with others. Moreover Students who are familiar with philosophy are able to partake in debates and arguments about any topic that interests them. It also gives them the background knowledge about logic, metaphysics and a deeper understanding of other fields in humanities.
2. It enhances student’s empowerment:
The knowledge of philosophy empowers students and enhance their ability to become empowered and more knowledgeable.
Since the study of philosophy also improves students love of wisdom which allows them to be more informed and enlightened.
This will enable them to be able to participate in competitions and other activities that allows them to make good use of their philosophical knowledge.
3. It aids skills acquisition:
The study of philosophy allows students to learn several basic skills such as communication, writing, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Since philosophy consists of a wide range of disciplines. It cuts across various fields of work that can help students to develop skills that will not only be beneficial to their academic development but also their personal development as well.
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