An introduction to the Educational Philosophy Perspectives Series: I currently convene and lecture a course in the Philosophy of Education for undergraduate students. Each week we cover a new philosophical perspective or paradigm. The following series will encompass short pieces written when wearing different “paradigm hats,” the purpose of which is to illustrate differing viewpoints within the Philosophy of Education. I have received positive feedback from students and staff who have enjoyed some of these pieces as a way to promote conceptual understanding of the content and critical analysis.
Existentialism versus other philosophies
The pragmatist philosopher says: where there are solutions that work, there is no room for those that don’t.
The reconstructionist philosopher says: where there is need for change, there is no room for impassivity.
The realist philosopher says: where there is factual knowledge, there is no room for superstition.
The idealist philosopher says: where there are powerful ideas, there is no room for weak ones.
The mystic philosopher says: where there is light, there is no room for darkness.
The existentialist philosopher says: where there is ‘wide-awakeness’, there is awareness of what is what.
Bibliographic reference (APA style):
Nielsen, T. W. (2016). Existentialism versus other philosophies. Retrieved <Day Month, Year (e.g. 30 March, 2016), from http://www.thomaswnielsen.net/philosophy-education-perspectives-existentialism-versus-philosophies/
Picture: “Prism” by Nathalie Babineau-Griffiths © 2013.
