Sir,

The study of Philosophy was once considered to be of utmost importance, especially in our culture. Every student was required to acquire the knowledge of the scriptures, as it was thought necessary to lead a meaningful life.

The advent of European education system has caused the subject to gradually disappear from the curriculum of schools and colleges of our country. By giving way to this change, we are readily accepting that our culture is inefficient in terms of education, which also means that we are not paying due respect to our ancestors.

A fact which everyone would know, but only a few would acknowledge is that we are giving importance only to the subjects which could help in fetching a job and establishing a secure career in one’s life. The very idea of education has been redefined.

For example, Maharaja’s College is an institution which was once famous for the Department of Philosophy. Today, the College offers 22 combinations in Bachelor of Arts, out of which only one combination includes Philosophy and it comes along with optional Kannada and Sociology. This means that students who prefer to study Philosophy in English medium don’t get a chance.

The Government and Universities alike should take this matter into consideration and must introduce Philosophy in most of the First Grade Degree Colleges, and if possible also as an optional subject in High Schools.

When it comes to higher education, the study of Philosophy should be made popular, just as subjects like History, Political Science, Geography,etc. are being treated. Most of all, students should be given lectures regarding the importance of Philosophy in their lives.

– U. Indra Mohan, Mysuru, 27.2.2020

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