The Neglected Values of Philosophy in Contemporary Society: A Call for Curriculum Review in Ethiopian Higher Education

Abstract

This paper aims at exploring the values of philosophy in the contemporary Ethiopian society. In my view the values of philosophy are overlooked and deemphasized consciously or unconsciously due to various reasons. Philosophy is viewed by some people as insignificant discipline; a discipline too speculative and lacks practical value and no longer valuable in the era of science and technology. However, addressing the following questions is relevant to resolve such misunderstandings: Is philosophy really worthless to the contemporary society? What are the values, if any, of philosophy for contemporary society in general and Ethiopian society in particular? Does philosophy contribute for learners in understanding sciences? To address these questions, therefore, the researcher employed philosophical methods of analysis and phenomenology. The focus of this paper is critically explaining philosophy’s practical impact on contemporary Ethiopian society. It points out that philosophy is significant for multi-faceted human development – social, political, intellectual and spiritual. I believe and recommend that a little dosage of philosophical training is important in general for citizens and students of higher education in particular. Some of the reasons are that philosophy can enable one to develop critical thinking dispositions, equips one to reason correctly and enables to engage in critical examination and analysis of different social issues. Above all, I firmly believe that a proper training in philosophy is essential to contribute to the development of a country. Hence, this paper offers valuable insights and suggestions for ministry of education and higher institutions to re-examine the mission and objective of education policy of Ethiopia whether it supports and promotes the production of critical citizens. All in all, it is a clarion call for curriculum review in Ethiopian higher education which overlooked the values of philosophy.