We celebrate World Philosophy Day on the third Thursday of November every year — this year it falls on November 18, but World Philosophy Day first occurred on November 21, 2002. The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) proclaimed it an International ay.To observe this day, we illuminate the path of philosophers and educationists of today by connecting them to scholarships from around the world.
History of World Philosophy Day
Philosophy delves into the concepts of existence, knowledge, values, the mind, language, and reason and has evolved throughout history. Philosophy has certainly shaped our present world and will mold and transform our future world’s societies. Therefore, it is only befitting that UNESCO institutionalized World Philosophy Day in 2005. In 2007, UNESCO published a 726-page multilingual (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish) program and meeting document on the Records of the General Conference, 33rd session, Paris, 2005. This was the Proclamation of World Philosophy Day. In launching World Philosophy Day in 2005, UNESCO emphasized that philosophy is vital to young people and a discipline that inspires the objective analysis and evaluation of issues to make a judgment. World Philosophy Day boosts the development of independent critical rational thinking, which leads to an improved understanding of the world, encouraging peace and forbearance. The UNESCO General Conference in 2005 had the conviction that embedding the concept of World Philosophy Day in society would popularize philosophy, particularly in teaching it to the world.After the day’s first celebration in 2002, UNESCO deemed it imperative to institutionalize the celebration of philosophical reflection the world over in 2005. This annual festivity supports people worldwide to participate and share their respective cultural legacies for authentic and peaceful synchronicity in the world.
World Philosophy Day timeline
Western philosophy begins with the Thales of Miletus.
UNESCO introduces World Philosophy Day on November 21, 2002.
UNESCO proclaims the annual celebration of World Philosophy Day.
This day immediately follows the celebration of International Day for Tolerance.
World Philosophy Day FAQs
What are the different types of philosophy?
There are seven types of philosophical studies: Metaphysics, Axiology, Logic, Aesthetics, Epistemology, Ethics, and Political Philosophy.
Who is known as the father of philosophy?
Socrates is known as the father of Western philosophy and for his contributions to the development of ancient Greek philosophy.
What are some books to get started with philosophy?
“Sophie’s World” by Jostein Gaarder, “A History of Western Philosophy” by Bertrand Russell, “Philosophy: The Basics” by Nigel Warburton, and “The Story of Philosophy” by Will Durant.
How to Observe World Philosophy Day
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Participate in workshops and cultural events
In collaboration with academic institutions, government, and organizations, UNESCO arranges various activities such as philosophical dialogues, debates, conferences, workshops, cultural events, and presentations showcasing the theme of World Philosophy Day for that year. Everybody is welcome to celebrate the occasion.
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Celebrate at home
You can download thinking sheets, visual philosophy recitals, and posters, which you can relish on your own or share with friends and people around the world on any social platform. You can even celebrate by reading a book, watching a movie or series on philosophy.
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Join hands with UNESCO
Actively participate and join UNESCO’s planned activities and events for the year’s celebration at international, national, and local levels. You can participate in activities with philosophers and scientists from innumerable social and natural sciences, media legislatures, teachers, students, and the general community. There are also exhibitions, book launches, fairs, and philosophy cafes, among other exciting and educational happenings.
5 Facts About Philosophy That Will Blow Your Mind
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The earliest philosophers
The first philosopher is Thales, and Aristotle and Plato are considered two of the earliest, most famous philosophy intellectuals.
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A powerful advocacy tool
UNESCO introduced philosophy as a tool to encourage the ethos of international culture of philosophical debate that compliments human self-respect and diversity.
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The first World Philosophy Day
The first World Philosophy Day was held at the headquarters of UNESCO in Paris.
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The World Philosophy Day boycott
In 2010, the celebration was outshone by an organized boycott of academies from all over the world, saying that celebrating in Tehran would risk turning the festivity into political propaganda for a vicious administration.
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UNESCO does not own philosophy
UNESCO proclaimed, institutionalized, and leads World Philosophy Day, but philosophy belongs to everyone who cares about philosophy.
Why World Philosophy Day is Important
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Every person can share their philosophical heritage
World Philosophy Day is not just a celebration or commemorating fun activities. It is a platform that encourages people to enthusiastically voice out their philosophical thoughts on ancient and contemporary issues and understand the world better. This greatly aids in the peaceful coexistence of diverse people all over the world.
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Raises public awareness
World Philosophy Day spreads the knowledge of the vital role of philosophy and its importance in the choices arising for many civilizations from globalization or access into the future world.
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World Philosophy Day is educational
Celebrating the day nurtures philosophical analysis, research, and studies on major current events, to respond more efficiently to the challenges experienced these days.
World Philosophy Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 17 | Thursday |
| 2023 | November 16 | Thursday |
| 2024 | November 21 | Thursday |
| 2025 | November 20 | Thursday |
