Philosophy's Contribution Toward Learning Beyond Specialization
Presentation Type
Oral and/or Visual Presentation
Presenter Major(s)
Liberal Studies, Philosophy
Mentor Information
Judy Whipps
Department
Liberal Studies
Location
Kirkhof Center 2263
Start Date
11-4-2012 4:00 PM
Keywords
Changing Ideas/Changing Worlds, Culture, Ethics, Historical Perspectives, Philosophy/ Literature
Abstract
In ancient times, educated citizens were encouraged to practice philosophy. Today, excessive specialization marginalizes philosophy, significantly decreasing philosophical development across curricula. Yet, philosophical development occurs beyond specialization. In this paper, I discuss how philosophy's role has changed and why implementing philosophical education across curricula is practical despite tensions between traditional vs. progressive values and developing jobs skills vs. philosophical development. I critique American higher education by comparing ancient Socratic and Confucian pedagogies, demonstrating that the conflicts that currently contribute to philosophy's marginalization were present in ancient times. In showing that the two conflicts existed in the ancient eras supports that historically, philosophical development was a foundation of education despite the presence of these two conflicts, without abandoning traditions and practical skills.
Philosophy's Contribution Toward Learning Beyond Specialization
Kirkhof Center 2263
In ancient times, educated citizens were encouraged to practice philosophy. Today, excessive specialization marginalizes philosophy, significantly decreasing philosophical development across curricula. Yet, philosophical development occurs beyond specialization. In this paper, I discuss how philosophy's role has changed and why implementing philosophical education across curricula is practical despite tensions between traditional vs. progressive values and developing jobs skills vs. philosophical development. I critique American higher education by comparing ancient Socratic and Confucian pedagogies, demonstrating that the conflicts that currently contribute to philosophy's marginalization were present in ancient times. In showing that the two conflicts existed in the ancient eras supports that historically, philosophical development was a foundation of education despite the presence of these two conflicts, without abandoning traditions and practical skills.