Philosophy for kids

realitykeeper

Philosophy these days is occasionally suggested as a subject which should be included in the primary curriculum. The issue I have with philosophy is that it is a bit like reinventing the wheel. Great minds have used philosophy down through the ages, the product of their efforts is what we call wisdom.

So what is wisdom if not nuggets of truths with tremendous value. These truisms are what the kids ought to be taught in schools. Philosophy can come later, it is a subject that might suit Mensa children who could perhaps add a new and original nugget of wisdom to the totality of human wisdom. And how can a course on wisdom be devised? Well, I find a lot of the self help books draw on some element of wisdom and expand on that particular nugget of truth.

Coming back to philosophy, when kids are introduced to that subject and encouraged to ask questions and discuss topics, they invariably ask a lot of silly questions and the answers to those questions are often well known scientifically proven facts.

If the idea of teaching philosophy is to get the kids to think for themselves then philosophy is not really the best avenue, and invariably just gives way to musings, speculation and such. I think extracurricular activities are better at broadening kids social circles and giving them the thinking skills they need.

One final point, as a Christian I do not believe philosophy should replace religion in the schools and I fully support the teaching of Christian religious education and also the basic facts pertaining to other religious beliefs.