A Case for Philosophy by Aaron

A Case for Philosophy by Aaron - August 2015 Scholarship Essay

I think that high schools in America need to teach philosophy to students for two main reasons. One, philosophy teaches students how to think and analyze information. Two, philosophy teaches students how to question knowledge. It is my belief that these two components are the basis of learning any skill or subject.

Philosophy teaches students how to think about the information that they receive, as oppose to just taking in information for memorization. This is a valuable tool, it makes education malleable instead of concrete blocks information. Philosophy makes all information personal, something that you digest and think about, break apart and scan for truths. Once a student is able to think and analyze information, they are then able to select the most pertinent information to be used at their disposal. This is a skill, a foundational skill that exceeds the limits of “subject” because the techniques learned in philosophy have universal application, and aids in a deeper understanding of all core subjects.

Philosophy also teaches students how to question information, this is a critical skill. Students are able to take the skills of analysis and question information. Students are no longer just sponges that soak of data given by the teacher. The ability to question information makes students active participants in education.
This participation can mold education itself, if not properly, can lead to the elimination of excess or unnecessary materials being taught.

In closing, you can see that philosophy is the foundation of learning itself. To think and question is real mental exercise, therefore teaching it to students serves as an enhancer of academic excellence.