Justice & the Philosopher-Citizen: Love and Educational Liberation for a Just & Democratic Society

• In Event: Democratic Reimaginings: Education as a Site of Justice

Abstract

In this paper, I examine philosophical and educational perspectives from Plato, Rawls, Thakkar, hooks, Freire, and Westheimer to address justice and a just and good society. Using dialogue from The Republic and other educational and philosophical scholars, I present a conceptual argument of the importance and need for the Philosopher-Citizen in a just and good society that practices democracy and holds democratic values. Given these chaotic times in the U.S. and abroad, there is a need for educators to include critical curriculum that promotes honest and truthful civics, social studies, and history in the classroom with students. I argue that through the implementation of a democratic and civic-minded curriculum that centers philosophical reflection and good citizenship, educators can provide students with the tools to be Philosopher-Citizens who foster and sustain a just and democratic society.

Author

• Thomas Noel Jr., Morgan State University