Philosophy for Children - a Gift from the Gods?

Abstract

Philosophy for Children, commonly known as P4C, is a late 20th century innovation which draws its inspiration from the rich tradition of Western philosophy, particularly Socrates and Dewey, but also from modern psychology, notably the Vygotskian theory of social constructivism. It uses stories and other suitable creations to stimulate challenging questions from young people, which the teacher/facilitator helps them to reason and reflect upon. It is becoming increasingly evident that the approach is not merely a ‘thinking skills’ programme. It ‘reaches parts’ that other interventions do not reach, helping to develop emotional and social skills, and almost certainly moral dispositions as well. This makes it particularly suitable for 21st century learning, which runs the risk of becoming even more individualistic and instrumental. Philosophy for Children (and for Communities — there is no upper age limit for taking part in a community of philosophical enquiry) might be said, therefore, to exemplify in a modern form Socrates's own belief that philosophy is something of a gift from the gods. This article also suggests that it might be a particular gift to the already quite gifted!