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16 November 2023 | Posted by angela.tuduri

Contemporary Reflections: Celebrating Philosophy Day

World Philosophy Day takes place every year on the third Thursday of November.

Declared by UNESCO in 2002, it aims to promote philosophy and its role in society. Its celebration is an opportunity to reflect on the value of this discipline and its importance in education.   

In an increasingly complex and changing world, philosophy is more necessary than ever. It helps us to understand the world around us and to make informed decisions. It also provides us with the tools we need to meet the challenges of the 21st century, such as globalization, sustainability and social justice.  

The value of philosophy today - Why do we celebrate this day?  

Philosophy helps us to develop critical thinking and reasoning, to question preconceived ideas and to seek creative solutions to the problems around us. UNESCO highlights the value of philosophy in the development of human thought, for every culture and every individual.    

UNESCO

In addition to being a discipline, philosophy is also an everyday practice that can transform societies and stimulate dialogue between cultures."

Its purpose is to promote philosophical reflection and encourage people to engage in philosophical discussions and debates. This day also aims to highlight the importance of philosophy in shaping our thoughts and actions, and its role in promoting peace and understanding between different cultures.  

Its celebration serves as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking and reflection in our daily lives. In a world where we are bombarded with information and opinions, it is crucial to step back and question the validity and implications of what is presented to us. Philosophy teaches us to think critically and not to accept things as they are presented, but to investigate more deeply and seek understanding.  

Contemporary philosophy | Navigating the trends of thought  

Philosophy plays an essential role in education by promoting critical thinking and the ability to question our beliefs and assumptions. Through philosophical study, students develop logical reasoning skills and learn to analyze and evaluate diverse points of view.  

UNESCO

In philosophy studies, the best way to foster critical thinking is, on the one hand, to stimulate in the student a courageous search for truth and a demand for rationality."

Ethics is another significant aspect of philosophy. It invites us to reflect on what is morally right and wrong, guiding us toward making informed and ethical decisions in our daily lives. In a world increasingly permeated by technology, ethics plays a crucial role in how we use and develop technology. Philosophy provides us with the tools to consider the ethical implications of our actions and make responsible decisions.  

UNESCO

Philosophy has reflected and continues to reflect on the possibilities of scientific knowledge, on its methods, and on the anthropological, ethical, and political implications of scientific-technical changes."

Finally, technology occupies a central place in many philosophical discussions. Technological progress raises questions about the nature of reality, personal identity and the relationship between humans and machines. Reflecting on these issues allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that technology presents us.  

By celebrating this day and engaging in philosophical thinking, we can promote critical thinking, open-mindedness, and understanding in our communities and in the world.  

Happy Philosophy Day! 

AREA IN PHILOSOPHY AND HUMANITIES

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