Key Takeaways:
World Philosophy Day is celebrated on the third Thursday of November of each year. It was first celebrated on 21st November 2002 as Philosophy Day and later established as World Philosophy Day by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on 21st November, 2005.
It highlights the value of philosophy and nurturing human thought, for individuals as well as various cultures.
This day stresses the importance of shaping and nurturing human thought and philosophy to define ethical principles which would act as a guiding light to humanity.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Origin of the Day
Significance
Theme
Conclusion
INTRODUCTION
Philosophy holds the power to inspire and shape cultures. UNESCO recognises the role of critical, free and informed thinking in enabling appreciation of intellectual diversity across various cultures and to build a peaceful, more respectful world. It contributes to addressing significant modern challenges by fostering the intellectual foundation necessary for change.
This year’s theme is “Philosophy: Bridging Social Gaps”, which underscores the importance of human thought and philosophy in bringing humanity together, with the ability to transform our social fabric and create a more connected, cohesive world.
An event regarding the theme shall be held at the UNESCO HQ on 21st November, with speeches from experts in the field of Philosophy such as Hartmut Rosa, Daniel Innerarity and Gabriela Ramos, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences
Additionally, various intellectual exercises such as debates, dialogues, conferences and presentations around the theme of the day are organised by UNESCO and its related partners.
ORIGIN OF THE DAY
Philosophy Day has been celebrated annually since 21st November, 2002, at the UNESCO headquarters. Deliberations regarding establishing World Philosophy Day began at the recommendation of Aziza Bennani, Morroco’s ambassador to UNESCO in January 2005 to advance philosophical thought and its intersectionality as a strategy to knit countries together.
UNESCO studied the response to the 3 prior Philosophy Days organised in 2002, 2003 and 2004, and noted that philosophical institutions gained increased support in 79 member states in 2004, up from 53 members in 2002.
In 2005, following deliberation between the executive board of UNESCO and various national commissions, NGOs, universities, research institutes and eminent personalities, the decision to establish World Philosophy Day was made by “promotion of philosophical thought and research” as enshrined in pillar 3 of the intersectoral strategy of UNESCO.
SIGNIFICANCE
World Philosophy Day celebrates the diversity of human thought and philosophical outlooks across cultures. It seeks to encourage intellectual mobilisation and greater emphasis on spreading awareness about the importance of free, critical and responsible philosophical dialogue.
World Philosophy Day aims to renew and foster philosophical thought, rationale and analysis at international as well as local levels within UNESCO member states, especially with the developing world in mind as it enters the era of globalisation and modernisation.
It also ushers hope of creating a world where philosophical and rational thought creates a peaceful and intellectually conducive world where ideas are exchanged and discussed without limitations of borders and stigma.
CONCLUSION
As declared by UNESCO, World Philosophy Day is merely led but not owned by UNESCO as philosophy is a common, inherited gift to humanity. Philosophical dialogues and logical deliberations may not only bring us closer to fellow humans but also to the world we are born in - ranging from cultures to appreciation of our natural biodiversity. As more countries participate and engage in intellectual exchanges amongst their citizens, foundations for a better world with mutual respect, understanding and belonging may be sown.
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