International Conference of Philosophy for Children 2010

from 14 - 17 October 2010 in Graz/Austria

Ann Margaret Sharp - In Memoriam

On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Austrian Society for Philosophy of Children, the theme of "Thinking the Future. Philosophy - Sustainability - Global Consciousness" is the focus of this year's congress.

In view of the rapid changes in society, the global ecological crises as well as the fundamental categorical shifts in the relationship between man and nature, it is becoming increasingly necessary to deal with the philosophical preconditions, the questions of causes and consequences of the changes, as well as preventive methods and accompanying measures, and opportunities and risks.

Particularly with regard to the risks, uncertainties and insecurities we are exposed to, questions arise such as:

What kind of world do we want to live in? What uncertainties in the development of our society and our environment do we face? What responsibility do we have for future generations? In what ways can philosophy help society perceive, change, and cope with current problems? What contribution to sustainability research can philosophical dialogue make?

The aim of the congress is the exchange between different philosophical approaches and theories in the context of today's world, as well as the inclusion of current research results from different scientific disciplines, in order to make further knowledge bases explicit for educational conceptions as well as, beyond that, for educational policy initiatives. Knowledge about nature and its dynamics as well as reflection on social and ethical aspects of ecological problems will be brought together in the context of philosophy for children.

In addition to lectures by renowned international experts on current and important topics, the congress will offer an overview of the current state of research, exciting policy debates and project presentations. The aim of the congress is to stimulate scientific discussions and personal exchange. The program promises an eventful conference for the approximately 200 participants from 18 countries, including 24 speakers.

The topics of the congress include the following areas:

• Intergenerational justice
• Distributive justice
• Understanding democracy
• Culture of responsibility - responsibility for future generations
• Community of inquiry
• Education for sustainable development
• Critical, creative and caring thinking "caring thinking".
• Relationship man - nature
• Lifelong learning
• Changing the relationship between cooperation and competition