EXAMINING THE ROLE OF PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGION IN SHAPING PUBLIC ATTITUDES TOWARD EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Abstract This study aimed to critically examine how philosophical and religious influences shaped societal attitudes toward early childhood education (ECE). It explored the extent to which philosophical perspectives and religious doctrines intersected with cultural values, thereby informing the development and implementation of ECE policies and practices. By engaging with these influences, the research sought to reveal how philosophical thought and religious beliefs concerning childhood, learning, and human development contributed to public understanding and perceptions of early childhood education. A Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) approach was applied to analyze diverse sources, including academic literature, policy documents, and interviews with key stakeholders such as educators, policymakers, and families. The study investigated how philosophical foundations (such as constructivism, developmentalism, and essentialism) and religious ideologies (such as Christianity and Islam) shaped educational orientations and practices within different social contexts. It also examined the power relations embedded in these discourses, illustrating how dominant philosophical and religious narratives marginalized alternative viewpoints or limited the recognition of diverse cultural and educational needs. Through this examination, the study addressed how these dynamics influenced the inclusiveness and fairness of ECE systems, particularly for children from varied socio-cultural backgrounds. The findings provided a deeper understanding of the historical and contemporary factors that shaped societal attitudes toward ECE, contributing to ongoing discourse on ensuring equitable access to high-quality early learning opportunities for all children. Furthermore, the study offered recommendations for ECE policies and practices that were more responsive to the diverse needs and rights of children and their families, advocating a more culturally inclusive approach to early childhood education. Keywords: Early childhood education, philosophical influences, religious beliefs, societal attitudes, inclusive policy