Why Teach Philosophy in Schools?

Introduction

This book presents a case for teaching philosophy in schools. It develops two original arguments for teaching philosophy to all students at some point over the course of their education.

Arguments for Teaching Philosophy

Gatley argues that teaching philosophy is the best way to help students to think clearly using ordinary, or non-specialist concepts such as ''good'', ''truth'', or ''happiness''. She goes on to argue that teaching philosophy is the best way to help students to make sense of the different conceptual schemes used by different school subjects.

Central Role of Philosophy in Education

Combining these two arguments, Gatley suggests that these two roles for philosophy are central to the task of educating people, and so philosophy ought to be included on school curricula.

Influences and Topics Covered

Building on the work of philosophers of education including Richard Stanley Peters, Harry Brighouse, Matthew Lipman, Mary Midgley and Martha Nussbaum, the book covers a range of topics including Philosophy for Children (P4C), the aims of education, religious education, curriculum design and education policy.