Revisiting the Aim of Education in the 21st Century: A Philosophical Inquiry

Educational Philosophy, since ancient time, has seriously showed its concern about the aim of education. But with the advent of new technologies, the emergence of globalisation, spread of ecological crises and the socioeconomic inequalities and disparities have questioned the traditional aim of education, and thereby have necessitated a fundamental reconsideration of the purpose of education. Unlike traditional educational philosophy that emphasised the transmission of knowledge, socialisation, and personal development, the recent scholarship in education has stressed the broader objectives — sustainability, global citizenship, ethical responsibilities, lifelong learning, ecological awareness and safer future — of education. The article is a conceptual and philosophical essay that critically analyses the ideas and opinions of the influential philosophers and compare them with the contemporary philosophers' arguments. This article contends that the aim and objective of education must significantly shift to architect humans imbibed with compassion and empathy, and capacitate them for addressing global challenges and contributing to a sustainable future and a better world. It is high time to reassess and review the aim of education in the 21st century that addresses human rights, global citizenship, sustainable development, human health, climate concern, war, terrorism and other challenges.