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Audrey asked:
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If philosophy was taught in high schools, more so than it is, what kind of effect or ripple might
happen? In other words, if they are taught to think earlier, how would it effect their choices, and
interactions?
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The lack of awareness of philosophy in British secondary education (ages 11—18) is a scandal.
School students can opt to do Philosophy for one of their Advanced level, pre-university entrance
subjects but relatively few schools offer the option. The syllabus for the A-level Philosophy exam is
stodgy and old-fashioned, with the same well-worn texts appearing over and over again. The
problems of philosophy are consigned to neat little pigeon holes and the answers learned off pat with
student essays scored on a strict points system. Nothing could be better calculated to dampen a
youngster's interest in philosophy.
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I would like to see philosophy taught in all high schools. The difficulty is, the teaching methods that
would be required to do the job properly are at odds with a system designed for the sole purpose of
grading and classifying. Let's face it, young philosophers can be a pain in the ass. They ask too many
questions. They answer the teacher back.
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Those few students who are lucky to have been taught to philosophizerather than pass an exam in
philosophy, have the best chance of doing well in whatever field they choose to pursue: art, science,
teaching, business, politics, sport. There is no area of human activity that is not enhanced by the
depth that it adds to a human personality. To be aware of the ultimate questions of human existence
adds to our appreciation of what life has to offer, makes us more effective in whatever we choose to
do. Not to mention the thinking and communication skills honed by philosophical dialogue and
debate.
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A good case can be made, I believe, for schools hiring philosophers from outside the teaching
profession. Since the days of Socrates philosophy at its best has always been a subversive activity.
The professional teacher's thinking is too geared to keeping discipline and awarding grades. It is
impossible to teach philosophy when your main concern is keeping order in class. Disrespect for
authority should be the rule. The kinds of philosophers I would hire would not get on well with other
members of the school staff room.
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Geoffrey Klempner
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