PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE (value-based: ideological, ethical, religious, political)
Working group C, Philosophy of life will deal with the role and significance of ideological, ethical, religious and political values in the modern society, and in particular in the field of liberal education. The subjects to be studied and reflected on include the present state and view of world of society and the individual; the status of great ideologies and trends of ideas; the significance of different values in today's world; and the status and prospects of value-oriented adult education.
The multiculturality of modern societies and the idea of a moral, ethical and aesthetic decay have partly prompted the need to initiate extensive and profound societal discussions about values, social ethics and positive solidarity. Several organs of the European Union have already opened discussion about the ways in which Europe could be steered in a more pluralistic, tolerant and cooperative direction.
One of the central functions of liberal education has traditionally been developing the versatility of an individual's personality, and supporting community activity in the civic society. Aspects on philosophy of life and different values are closely linked to this task. The principles of lifelong learning also include ideas of social cohesion and functionality of communities.
Working group C may choose subjects of discussion for example from the following fields of topical issues: Do we need value-oriented adult education? If we do, what should it be like? What is the role of civic organisations and educational institutions in the development of value-oriented adult education? What is the interdependency of civic organisations, educational institutions and the society? How should the activity of civic organisations and value-oriented educational institutions be financed?
EXCURSION
The working group will be taken on an excursion to Turun Kristillinen Opisto, an educational institution operating on an ideological basis. The effect of the ideological principles on the operation of the institution will be demonstrated to the members of the working group.
