The Importance of Philosophy in Education

For centuries, children were taught a well-rounded education that included subjects like math, science, grammar, philosophy, and theology. This holistic approach to education produced some of the greatest thinkers in history, even in eras that were significantly less technologically advanced than today. However, in recent times, there has been a decline in creativity and critical thinking skills among students. This creativity crisis can be attributed to the diminishing emphasis on subjects like philosophy in modern education.

Studying philosophy equips children with the skills necessary to approach problems, think critically, and consider multiple perspectives. It teaches them how to think logically, separate valid arguments from invalid ones, and effectively communicate with others. These skills are essential for handling problems not only in the workplace but also in personal relationships and life in general.

Consider the last time you had an issue with a customer service representative. Did they rely on a memorized understanding of policies and procedures to address your concern, or did they creatively find a solution that satisfied you? Unfortunately, finding individuals who can think creatively and problem-solve effectively is becoming increasingly difficult.

The current generation of workers is primarily composed of individuals who have come through a school system heavily reliant on standardized testing and rote memorization. These students are taught what to think rather than how to think. This type of education fails to cultivate creativity and critical thinking skills, leaving students ill-prepared for the challenges of the modern world.

As technology advanced in the late 20th century, it became evident that the traditional industrial model of education had significant weaknesses. The United States, in particular, started to fall behind other nations in terms of student performance. In response, the accountability movement gained traction, focusing on improving math and science education through standardized testing and educational standards.

However, after almost 15 years since the implementation of the No Child Left Behind Act, it is clear that the emphasis on metrics and statistics has not yielded the promised results. In fact, the United States’ international ranking in math and science dropped between 2001 and 2009. Teachers are compelled to “teach to the test,” prioritizing memorization over higher cognitive thinking assignments. Excessive time and resources are devoted to test preparation, putting unnecessary strain on school district budgets.

The focus on standardized testing has led to an education system that primarily values facts and figures that can be easily memorized and regurgitated. This shift away from deeper understanding and critical thinking has had a profound impact on education. In the past, philosophers played a crucial role in the development of scientific fields, as they sought meaning within the universe. Today, students should be introduced to basic philosophical concepts from an early age to foster critical thinking skills and cultivate a deeper understanding of the subjects they are learning.

Teaching philosophy to children does not have to be a daunting task. Many children’s books are built around philosophical concepts such as fairness, truth, honesty, and ethics. By discussing the philosophical themes present in these books, parents can engage their children in meaningful conversations. As children grow older, more complex concepts like causality, peer pressure, and morality can be introduced.

Studies have shown that teaching philosophy to children has a positive impact on their cognitive abilities. In a study conducted by the BPS Research Digest, students who were taught philosophy showed significant improvements in their verbal, numerical, and spatial abilities. These improvements were long-lasting, as the same students continued to score higher on tests two years later.

By integrating philosophical concepts into everyday events and discussions, parents and educators can teach children how to think rather than what to think. This approach not only develops critical thinking skills but also nurtures creativity and empathy. Ultimately, by emphasizing philosophy in education, we equip future generations with the tools to create a better world.