In 2005 the UNESCO General Conference proclaimed that World Philosophy Day would be celebrated every third Thursday of November.

In establishing World Philosophy Day UNESCO strives to promote an international
culture of philosophical debate that respects human dignity and diversity. The Day encourages academic exchange and highlights the contribution of philosophical
knowledge in addressing global issues.

Why a Philosophy Day?

Many thinkers state that “astonishment” is the root of philosophy. Indeed, philosophy
stems from humans’ natural tendency to be astonished by themselves and the world in
which they live.

This field, which sees itself as a form of “wisdom”, teaches us to reflect on reflection
itself, to continually question well-established truths, to verify hypotheses and to find
conclusions.

For centuries, in every culture, philosophy has given birth to concepts, ideas and
analyses, and, through this, has set down the basis for critical, independent and creative thought.

World Philosophy Day celebrates the importance of philosophical reflection, and
encourages people all over the world to share their philosophical heritage with each other.

For UNESCO, philosophy provides the conceptual bases of principles and values on
which world peace depends: democracy, human rights, justice, and equality.
Philosophy helps consolidate these authentic foundations of peaceful coexistence.