Today, November 17, humanity celebrates World Philosophy Day, observed on the third Thursday of November to honour philosophical reflections around the world.
Our troubled times would benefit from more philosophical reflection, sharing thoughts, and openly exploring and discussing new ideas on society’s challenges. In a world that is becoming increasingly hostile to free speech, the survival and flourishing of philosophical thought in academia and political and social life is necessary and imperative to our survival.
World Philosophy Day is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) initiative that draws people worldwide to engage in shared reflection on contemporary issues. Various events and activities include:
- Philosophical dialogues, debates, lectures, and meetings involving renowned philosophers.
- International conferences on philosophical topics include the connection between philosophy, education and culture.
- Exhibitions and philosophy book fairs.
- Philosophy cafes.
Philosophy has opened the door for new concepts and innovative ideas, laying the foundations of critical thinking, independence and creativity across cultures for centuries. UNESCO introduced World Philosophy Day in 2002 to honour philosophical reflections worldwide by opening spaces and encouraging people to share their philosophical heritage, open their minds to new ideas, and inspire public debate on society’s challenges.
We salute our ancient and modern philosophers and those who believe in and respect diversity of thought!
On this day in 1902, the Antikythera Mechanism was discovered