The Importance of Philosophical Knowledge in Shaping Children's Thinking System and Worldview

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Abstract

From the moment of birth, a child strives to comprehend and understand the surrounding world, taking the first steps toward philosophical thinking through this cognitive process. However, in today's rapidly developing information society, there are numerous factors that distort children's consciousness, lead to flawed perceptions, and limit their worldview. Therefore, for children, it is important not only to acquire knowledge but also to develop the ability to analyze, evaluate, and think critically. In this regard, philosophy contributes significantly to children's personal development by fostering decision-making skills, comparative and critical thinking, and empathy, helping them to understand their own identity and grow as individuals.

Currently, philosophy as a subject is not included in Kazakhstan’s school curriculum. However, drawing on global experience, it is evident that in developed countries such as Western Europe, the USA, Canada, and Australia, philosophical education is systematically implemented at the secondary school level based on the “Philosophy for Children” (P4C) program. Introducing philosophy into the school curriculum contributes not only to the personal development of the child but also to the formation of public consciousness, the strengthening of family relationships, and the cultural and spiritual growth of the country. In this context, the development of philosophy and the promotion of interest in it is a highly important and relevant issue for Kazakh society. Today, Kazakhstan faces various internal and external challenges, including issues in the education system, corruption, social inequality, religious extremism, external ideological influences aimed at weakening national identity, and cultural assimilation within globalization processes. Philosophical education serves as an indispensable spiritual tool to counter such problems. A society with a strong philosophical and national consciousness is more resilient in overcoming global spiritual and existential crises.