10: "It's easier to build strong children than to repair broken men" - Frederick Douglass

A few weeks ago, a computer-science turned philosopher friend of mine shared with me an article from the Washington Post, written by Steve Neumann. I did not have a chance to read it until recently, and I had to agree with much of what was written. First, I would like to say that I have never taken a philosophy course in my life, but I have always felt I was a student of the subject. I always questioned the world around me, the actions of people, animals, life, the way the world works, and so forth. I would have loved to have deep conversations about subjects, but was rarely given the opportunity to.

The article defines academic philosophy as the discipline of humanities concerned with clarifying and analyzing concepts and arguments relating to the big questions of life. Essentially, the focus is on asking questions, which would eventually lead to understanding, and possibly wisdom. However, the process is a strenuous activity, which typically requires dialogue. This dialogue is most significant, as it leads to thinking being challenged.

Looking at this definition, it must be realized that we are all natural born philosophers - at a young age, we question and are curious of the world around us, making meanings as we go along. Somewhere along the line, we lose our sense of wonderment, and look for information being given to us, without challenging it, without critically analyzing anything, we accept it. This is essentially what leads to the general population falling for government lies to invade countries, and leaders being elected - all because of a population that does not have the ability to critically think. Maybe this is what those in power want?

However, we can change this with education. We do not have to 'teach' philosophy, as student's can do that themselves. What educators have to do though, is to guide students in learning the process, paying attention their reasoning, having dialogues while respect each other. Through this process, we can create better citizens, and help create a better society.

-Ragu

Reference:

Strauss, V. (2014, February 3). Why kids - now more than ever - need to learn philosophy. Yes, philosophy. The Washington Post. Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/answer-sheet/wp/2016/02/03/why-kids-now-more-than-ever-need-to-learn-philosophy-yes-philosophy/