In this episode of Education Matters, host Jason Buccheri explores the vital role of philosophy in the modern school system with guest Professor Anthony Grayling, a world-renowned public philosopher and principal of Northeastern University London. This conversation is another installment in our Big Idea series, which explores the thinkers, traditions, and questions sitting at the heart of what education is and what it might become. Professor Grayling challenges the idea of philosophy as a niche academic subject, presenting it instead as a “wider understanding” that is absolutely vital for an educated person. He highlights how philosophical inquiry provides essential tools for navigating an increasingly complex world by fostering reflection, mature dialogue, and self-understanding.

The two discuss the practical implementation of these ideas, with Grayling suggesting that philosophy should not be another siloed subject but a framework that allows every other subject to make sense. They also examine Grayling’s decision to found his own university to preserve the tutorial model and how the emergence of AI may be forcing society to rediscover more human-centered forms of learning rather than automating them away. Throughout the episode, Grayling emphasizes the vital distinction between “training”—the acquisition of practices—and “education”—the final stage of understanding and reflection that allows individuals to “own their lives”. This episode is a compelling look at how philosophy can help cultivate sharper thinkers and more empathetic, democratic citizens.