It has come to our attention that yesterday was World Philosophy Day. Who knew?
Since 2002, UNESCO has named the third Thursday in November World Philosophy Day, as a way to “make philosophical reflection accessible to all (professors and students, scholars and the general public, the young and the less young), thereby enlarging the opportunities and spaces for the stimulation of critical thinking and debate” (UNESCO).
Events were held in 80 countries around the globe. “At UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, the Day, celebrated on 18 November 2010, will be officially inaugurated by Irina Bokova, UNESCO’s Director-General. An International Forum will be organized on the topic “Philosophy, Cultural Diversity and Rapprochement of Cultures”, with the participation of internationally-renowned philosophers and eminent figures” (UNESCO).