Living the Paradox of Risk: Rethinking Approaches to Social Justice in Education

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 32
  In Roundtable Session: Philosophical Approaches to Understanding Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice in Education

Abstract

In this paper, we elaborate on the notion of risk in relation to social justice in education. Firstly, we discuss two opposing discourses on risk: education as “risk-free” – in which eliminating risk is an aim for education, and education as “risk-full” – in which risk is a condition of education. Secondly, we argue both discourses on risk, when framed as either/or, may miss the target of social justice. Instead, we propose viewing risk as a paradox: both taking risks of violence seriously and embracing risk to enable social change. By opening up for teachers the possibility of living within the paradox of risk, we create a space for responsibility and action toward social justice.

Authors

• Maria Rosén, Uppsala University

• Emma Maria Kristin Arneback, Orebro University