Republic of the Philippines

State Universities and Colleges

GUIMARAS STATE COLLEGE
GRADUATE SCHOOL
Buenavista, Guimaras

Subject: Philosophy and Ethics on Education

Professor: MA. ADRILYN R. LACUROM, PhD
Topic: Perennialism and Education
Discussant: ROVELYN D. ALAGOS

PERENNIALISM AND EDUCATION

Introduction:
Perennialism in education is a philosophical approach that emphasizes the teaching
of ideas and principles that are timeless, universal, and enduring. It focuses on developing
students' intellectual and moral qualities through exposure to the "Great Books" and
classical works that have shaped human thought and civilization. Perennialism argues that
education should focus on cultivating rational thought, moral virtue, and a deep
understanding of fundamental truths rather than being driven by immediate practical skills
or contemporary issues.
Perennialism is a philosophy of education that emphasizes the enduring ideas and universal
truths that have stood the test of time. Rooted in classical educational theories,
perennialism advocates for a curriculum focused on the study of great works of literature,
philosophy, history, and science, which are seen as essential for cultivating rational thought
and moral character.
Key Principles of Perennialism
1. Focus on Universal Truths:
Perennialism holds that certain ideas, principles, and values are timeless and
universal. These truths are constant, regardless of changing times or cultural shifts,
and should form the foundation of education.
Example: Classical works like Plato’s Republic or Aristotle’s Ethics are studied because
they deal with fundamental questions about human nature, morality, and society,
which perennialist believe are relevant in any era.
2. Emphasis on Intellectual and Moral Development:
The primary goal of education, according to perennialist, is to cultivate the intellect
and character of the learner. Rather than focusing on vocational skills or immediate
practicality, education should foster deep thinking, logic, and ethical understanding.
Example: Students might engage in philosophical debates or study the moral
dilemmas posed in classical literature to develop their reasoning and ethical decision-
making skills.
3. Teacher-Centered Instruction:
Perennialism emphasizes the authority of the teacher in the educational process. The
teacher, who is well-versed in the great works and ideas, directs the learning process,
 Republic of the Philippines
State Universities and Colleges
GUIMARAS STATE COLLEGE
GRADUATE SCHOOL
Buenavista, Guimaras

Subject: Philosophy and Ethics on Education

Professor: MA. ADRILYN R. LACUROM, PhD
Topic: Perennialism and Education
Discussant: ROVELYN D. ALAGOS
guiding students through the complex material. The teacher's role is to transmit the
wisdom of the past to the present generation.
Example: A teacher might lecture on the significance of historical events or lead
discussions on the meanings of philosophical texts to impart understanding.
4. Curriculum Focused on Classic Works:
The perennialist curriculum is grounded in the study of classic works in literature,
philosophy, science, and art. These texts, often referred to as the "Great Books," are
seen as offering profound insights into human nature and the world.
Example: Students might study works such as Shakespeare’s plays, Dante’s Divine
Comedy, or Newton’s Principia Mathematica to explore fundamental themes in
literature, philosophy, and science.
5. Learning Through Socratic Dialogue:
Socratic dialogue, where teachers ask guiding questions to stimulate critical thinking,
is a common teaching method in perennialist classrooms. This approach encourages
students to engage with the material and develop their own understanding through
discussion and reflection.
Example: A teacher might ask open-ended questions about a philosophical argument
or historical event to encourage students to explore the underlying principles and
ideas.
6. Education as Preparation for Life:
Perennialism asserts that education should prepare students for a life of thinking and
ethical responsibility, not just for a specific career or skill. It emphasizes lifelong
learning, intellectual growth, and the pursuit of truth.
Example: Instead of training students solely for specific job skills, perennialist
education aims to develop well-rounded individuals who can think critically, solve
problems, and engage in moral reasoning in any context.
7. Resisting Educational Fads:
Perennialist are critical of educational trends that prioritize contemporary relevance,
technology, or practical skills over the study of enduring ideas. They argue that
education should not be swayed by the changing demands of society or the job
market but should remain focused on cultivating the intellect.
Example: Perennialist might oppose education reforms that emphasize vocational
training or job-specific skills, instead advocating for a return to the study of classical
subjects like philosophy, mathematics, and literature.
 Republic of the Philippines
State Universities and Colleges
GUIMARAS STATE COLLEGE
GRADUATE SCHOOL
Buenavista, Guimaras

Subject: Philosophy and Ethics on Education

Professor: MA. ADRILYN R. LACUROM, PhD
Topic: Perennialism and Education
Discussant: ROVELYN D. ALAGOS
Criticism of Perennialism:
While perennialism offers a structured and intellectual approach to education, it has
also faced criticism:
Limited Scope: Critics argue that perennialism focuses too much on Western classics,
often excluding diverse perspectives and contemporary issues.
Not Practical: In an age where practical skills and adaptability are important, some
see perennialism’s focus on timeless ideas as outdated and less relevant to modern
job markets.
Rigid Curriculum: The emphasis on a fixed curriculum of classic texts can be seen as
inflexible, leaving little room for innovation or addressing the individual needs and
interests of students.

Application of Perennialism in Education:

1. Curriculum:
The perennialist curriculum is centered around classical works from Western
civilization, including literature, philosophy, history, and science. Subjects like
math, logic, and the sciences are taught to develop critical thinking, while
literature and philosophy offer moral and ethical lessons.
Example: Students might study works like The Iliad by Homer, The Republic by
Plato, or Shakespeare's Hamlet to explore deep philosophical and moral
questions.
2. Teaching Methods:
Teachers use direct instruction and Socratic questioning to engage students in
discussions about the meanings and implications of the great works. There is a
strong emphasis on logical reasoning and the development of coherent
arguments.
Example: In a philosophy class, students might debate ethical dilemmas raised in
classical texts to develop their understanding of moral philosophy and improve
their reasoning skills.
3. Assessment:
Assessments in perennialist education focus on students’ ability to think critically,
understand complex ideas, and engage in meaningful discussions. Exams and
essays often require students to analyze texts, develop arguments, and explore
the deeper meanings of the works they study.
Example: An exam might ask students to explain and critique Aristotle's theory of
virtue, demonstrating both their knowledge of the text and their ability to think
critically about its application.
 Republic of the Philippines
State Universities and Colleges
GUIMARAS STATE COLLEGE
GRADUATE SCHOOL
Buenavista, Guimaras

Subject: Philosophy and Ethics on Education

Professor: MA. ADRILYN R. LACUROM, PhD
Topic: Perennialism and Education
Discussant: ROVELYN D. ALAGOS

Conclusion:
Perennialism, with its emphasis on timeless truths, intellectual rigor, and
moral education, presents a traditional and structured approach to education. It
values the transmission of knowledge that has withstood the test of time and aims to
cultivate critical thinking and ethical individuals. However, its focus on classical works
and universal truths may not always align with the needs of contemporary, diverse,
and fast-changing educational landscapes.
Perennialism in education advocates for a return to the enduring ideas and
values found in the great works of literature, philosophy, and science. It prioritizes
the development of intellectual and moral virtues over the acquisition of practical
skills or the pursuit of contemporary trends. While it offers a structured and rigorous
approach to education, it faces criticism for its narrow focus and lack of adaptability
to modern educational needs. Nonetheless, perennialism remains an influential
philosophy for those who believe in the value of timeless truths and the importance
of intellectual and moral development in education.