Philosophy has had a profound impact on how people live, work, worship, and participate in society since the dawn of civilized human activity.

From the 6th century BC, Ancient Greece is where philosophy originated. Philosophy is everywhere, from Socrates to Ionian Philosophers to the Pythagoreans and the Sophists. It has had an influence on nearly everything people do from idealism to radicalism and materialism to everything in between.

The study of philosophy can improve one’s ability to think critically, solve problems, understand concepts, build definitions, and analyze arguments. Because they learn how to combine ideas and answer questions about what is important and valuable, it can help people function better in their communities and societies.

World Philosophy Day was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in 2002 to celebrate the contribution of philosophy to the development of people and cultures around the world. In 2005, UNESCO created World Philosophy Day at its General Conference to ensure that it was celebrated each year.

Initiating World Philosophy Day was intended to promote philosophy and motivate the teaching and learning. This is the right time to celebrate World Philosophy Day and dive deep into it!

Connect with these ideas to get involved in World Philosophy Day

World Philosophy Day is celebrated around the world and offers many opportunities for participation in activities that promote these concepts. UNESCO works with many institutions and organizations to sponsor and support conferences, workshops and debates, presentations and cultural events, as well as other activities. To find out more about which educational or government institutions may be sponsoring local events, visit the UNESCO website.

Learn more about philosophy and get connected to it by reading books by other authors. These philosophy books might be useful for beginners.