Study: Should Primary Schools Teach Philosophy?

New research carried out by the University of Durham demonstrates the positive impact of Philosophy for Children (P4C) on primary school pupils. In addition to boosting literacy and numeracy outcomes, classes involved in the study improved their social skills, resilience, and empathy for others. In line with similar studies, these effects were more pronounced for pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The strength of this research is in its size – over 3000 pupils participated. More large studies such as this are sorely needed to help make the case for philosophy at all levels of education.

Read the full brief here.