Teaching Philosophy in the Twenty-First Century

The relevance of philosophy in the strife torn world of today cannot be undermined: going into the 'why' of ideas, philosophy examines the importance of concepts and ways to cultivate values, and foster them. But its growing unpopularity particularly as a discipline of study warrants specific attention. The book explores an important factor responsible for this the way in which philosophy is taught.

The papers, presented at a national seminar sponsored by Indian Council of Philosophical Research, look into various aspects of teaching philosophy: its methods, models, techniques, associated problems and prospects in the coming decades to highlight the nature and relevance of philosophy. They scrutinize the philosophy curriculum in universities today and study the ancient India, with their stress on summarizing the essence of philosophical doctrines in sutras or aphorisms. Scholars from the West in their thought-provoking analyses present the changing patterns of curriculum and syllabus of philosophy, and the use of computers and science fiction for the purpose. The Indian teachers of philosophy, both old and young, emphasize on acquainting the students with philosophy right from the school level, and teaching philosophy in an entertaining yet edifying manner by presenting life stories of philosophers and teaching through novel methods. They discuss the need to introduce and popularize philosophy among people in general so as to make philosophy a way of life that can usher in moral and spiritual progress in the Twenty-first Century.

About the Author:

Professor P. George Victor, Director, Centre for Religious Studies, Andhra University, has a distinguished reputation as a teacher and writer. He has been teaching Sankara Vedanta and Western Philosophy for post-graduate students for more than two decades. Prior to coming to the University he taught at D.N.R. Autonomous College for the graduate students. He served as Visiting Professor on the faculty of C.O.T.R. Theological Seminary. Being Professor of Philosophy at Andhra University, Dr. George Victor is the author of 'Social Philosophy of Vedanta', 'Moral Science' and 'Life and Teachings of Adi Sankaracarya', as well as the editor of 'Saints and Gurus' and 'Social Relevance of Philosophy'.