The Neglected Values of Philosophy in Contemporary Society: A Call for Curriculum Review in Ethiopian Higher Education

Matusala Sundado

doi:10.11648/j.ash.20190503.12

Abstract

This paper aims at exploring the values of philosophy in the contemporary Ethiopian society. In my view the values of philosophy are overlooked and deemphasized consciously or unconsciously due to various reasons. Philosophy is viewed by some people as insignificant discipline; a discipline too speculative and lacks practical value and no longer valuable in the era of science and technology. However, addressing the following questions is relevant to resolve such misunderstandings: Is philosophy really worthless to the contemporary society? What are the values, if any, of philosophy for contemporary society in general and Ethiopian society in particular? Does philosophy contribute for learners in understanding sciences? To address these questions, therefore, the researcher employed philosophical methods of analysis and phenomenology. The focus of this paper is critically explaining philosophy’s practical impact on contemporary Ethiopian society. It points out that philosophy is significant for multi-faceted human development – social, political, intellectual and spiritual. I believe and recommend that a little dosage of philosophical training is important in general for citizens and students of higher education in particular. Some of the reasons are that philosophy can enable one to develop critical thinking dispositions, equips one to reason correctly and enables to engage in critical examination and analysis of different social issues. Above all, I firmly believe that a proper training in philosophy is essential to contribute to the development of a country. Hence, this paper offers valuable insights and suggestions for ministry of education and higher institutions to re-examine the mission and objective of education policy of Ethiopia whether it supports and promotes the production of critical citizens. All in all, it is a clarion call for curriculum review in Ethiopian higher education which overlooked the values of philosophy.

Highlights

In this paper I argue that critical and rational thinking skills are undoubtedly essential to address the problems of humanity
Critical thinking skills and dispositions are undoubtedly important to society in general and higher education students in particular to challenge presuppositions and solve personal and professional problems [13]
I strongly believe that a little dosage of philosophical training is an imperative to students of higher education to implement the current policies and direction of Ethiopian government which emphasizes training and education in science fields by enrolling 70% of students that join preparatory program and higher education

Summary

Introduction

In this paper I argue that critical and rational thinking skills are undoubtedly essential to address the problems of humanity. In order to acquire and develop these values of philosophy students of higher education in Ethiopia need to learn philosophy as a course in class because exposure to philosophical ideas and discourses in schools creates opportunity to philosophize in the class room and outside it. Students are introduced to skills of rational analysis of issues, constructive criticism of arguments, and examination of various problems that arise in both academic and social life; and develop skills how to solve various problems. The value of philosophy is critical and immeasurable in human life. In order to acquire and develop such values in both academic and social life students need to take philosophy courses, and revising higher education curricula

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