Basic Information
World Philosophy Day is an annual event observed on third Thursday of November to honor philosophical reflection in the entire world by opening up free and accessible spaces.
Observed on: Third Thursday of November (19 November, 2020)
Organized By: UN, UNESCO
Introduced in: 2002 (by UNESCO), 2005 (UN First Observation)
Observed: Internationally
About World Philosophy Day
World Philosophy Day is a UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) initiative. It aims to draw people around the world to engage in shared reflection on contemporary issues.
Philosophy Day was introduced in 2002 by UNESCO. Its objective is to encourage people of the world to share their philosophical heritage and to open their minds to new ideas, as well as to inspire a public debate between intellectuals and civil society on the challenges confronting our society.
UNESCO General Conference proclaimed to observe every third Thursday of November as World Philosophy Day in 2005. The day aims to highlight the importance of this discipline, especially for young people, underlining that “philosophy is a discipline that encourages critical and independent thought and is capable of working towards a better understanding of the world and promoting tolerance and peace”.
By observing Philosophy Day, UNESCO underlines the enduring value of philosophy for the development of human thought, for each culture and for each individual. The observation is also to win recognition for and give strong impetus to philosophy and, in particular, to the teaching of philosophy in the world.
Activities and Programs on Philosophy Day
On Philosophy Day many renowned philosophers, educators come together to participate in different programs. The events on this day also discuss about the connection between philosophy, education and culture. Many government and non-government agencies and organizations, community groups, clubs, institutions, schools, universities and educators are participating in this observation with different programs. Philosophy departments in universities or colleges took initiative in celebrating this day.
This day is observed with different programs or events or activities around the world. Some include dialogues, lectures, debates, conferences, meetings, round table conferences, discussions on different topics, exhibitions, book fairs etc.
Theme for World Philosophy Day
Philosophy Day 2020 Theme is “The importance of philosophy in times of crisis”
World Philosophy Day 2019 aims to highlight the importance of philosophy in different regional contexts
Philosophy Day 2018 Theme was “Social Transformations and Intercultural Dialogue’ promote international culture of philosophical debate“
2016: Past and Present
2015: Plurality of Languages and Places of Philosophy
2014: Social Transformation and Intercultural Dialogue
2013: Philosophy as Inquiry and Way of Life
2012: Future Generations