Wendell's Diary

Growing up is an endless series of experiences—some joyful, some challenging, but all shaping who we are. It’s through these experiences that we emerge into the people we become, a journey unique to each of us. This idea is at the heart of the Philosophy of Emergence, and I believe it has the potential to profoundly transform how children navigate life. The Philosophy of Emergence teaches us to let meaning, truth, and understanding reveal themselves naturally. It emphasizes patience, observation, and authenticity over forcing preconceived notions onto life. For children, who are still exploring themselves and the world around them, this perspective can be a powerful guide. Imagine equipping a child with this philosophy early in life. When they encounter failure, instead of feeling defeated, they learn to see it as part of their growth—an opportunity for understanding to emerge. When they face uncertainty, they can lean into it with patience, knowing that clarity often unfolds over time...

When I was growing up, there was something missing. I didn’t know it at the time, but what I needed was philosophy—a way to understand the world, to think deeply about my purpose, and to find meaning in life. It wasn’t until I was around twenty years old that I discovered philosophy, and by then, I felt like I had already lost precious time. If I had been introduced to philosophy earlier, my life could have started so much sooner. I could have had the tools to shape my purpose, to figure out who I wanted to be, and to focus on what truly mattered. But instead, I wandered, unsure of how to navigate life’s questions. So, I became the person I needed as a child. I became the greatest tutor I could imagine for myself. Through trial and error, I taught myself philosophy, and in doing so, I discovered not only my purpose but also a deep responsibility: to share this knowledge with others. I want to give young people the opportunity I didn’t have. They shouldn’t have to wait until adulthood t...

To the Leaders of Education, Philosophy belongs in our classrooms. Not as an afterthought in higher education, but as a foundation taught during a child’s formative years, when their minds are still malleable, curious, and open. Our education system shapes future citizens, yet it often neglects the most profound tool for growth: the ability to think critically, question deeply, and reflect on life’s meaning. Philosophy offers children this gift. It teaches them how to navigate uncertainty, reason ethically, and explore perspectives beyond their own. Imagine a child learning to ask, “What is fairness?” rather than just memorizing facts. Picture a classroom where students discuss the nature of happiness, justice, or even what it means to live a good life. These aren’t abstract exercises—they’re lessons that arm them with tools to understand themselves and their world. Introducing philosophy early has profound benefits. It nurtures empathy by helping children consider the viewpoints of ot...

Education is one of the most critical aspects of our lives, but the traditional classroom model has significant flaws. It focuses too heavily on testing knowledge rather than fostering understanding and application. Over time, I’ve come to believe that education needs a fundamental shift—a move away from stress-inducing classrooms to environments that prioritize real-world learning, creativity, and connection. --- The Problem with Grading Grading in classrooms often tests only how well students can memorize information, not how they can use it. Real knowledge isn’t about recalling facts; it’s about applying those facts in meaningful ways. If we evaluated students over longer periods—years, even—we could assess their understanding by the quality of their actions, creations, and problem-solving skills. True learning is reflected in what we do, not just in what we know. --- A Better Way to Learn Children shouldn’t be confined to stressful classroom environments. Instead, they should be ou...

**Introduction** Philosophy, often reserved for higher education, offers tools for critical thinking, ethical understanding, and intellectual curiosity. Yet, these skills are just as essential for young minds. Integrating philosophy into K-12 education can enrich students' learning experiences, prepare them for complex life challenges, and foster a deeper appreciation for inquiry and reasoning. This post explores why philosophy should be a fundamental part of K-12 curricula and the benefits it brings to early education. **Building Critical Thinking Skills** Philosophy encourages students to question assumptions, analyze arguments, and think logically. By engaging with philosophical discussions, students develop critical thinking skills that are crucial for problem-solving across all areas of life. These skills help students evaluate information critically, make informed decisions, and approach problems with a thoughtful, analytical mindset. **Enhancing Ethical Understanding** Philo...

The traditional K-12 education system has long been the standard for educating young minds. However, it's becoming increasingly clear that this system is outdated. Being forced to attend a physical location, follow a rigid curriculum, and do things the prescribed way doesn't foster independent thinking. Instead, it creates collective workers rather than individual thinkers. Enter ChatGPT, a revolutionary tool that can serve as a tutor for anyone interested in learning. By teaching students how to use it, ChatGPT can become a part of their daily lives, guiding them through subjects they're passionate about. The more they use it, the more educated they become, focusing on what's truly important to them. Unlike the traditional system, which includes a lot of unnecessary information and lacks options like philosophy, ChatGPT allows for a personalized education experience. Imagine a world where students build their own curriculum with the help of ChatGPT. This AI companion c...