The Transformative Role of Education in Shaping Social Norms and Values

Abstract

The following text serves as an introduction and an invitation to read the latest issue of the journal “Karto-Teka Gdańska”, titled “Education in the Face of (Un)Obvious Challenges of Modernity”. This issue primarily focuses on the role of education in shaping social norms and values amidst contemporary socio-cultural transformations.  The editors emphasize that education is a crucial tool in promoting values such as respect, dignity, identity, and access to knowledge and culture. The articles in this issue address various topics, including the impact of the war in Ukraine on perspectives regarding social discourses and norms. The analysis also covers cultural and ecological crises and their multifaceted implications for education. Special attention is given to philosophical, ethical, and religious education as foundations for understanding and practicing the idea of equality. The authors highlight the importance of an interdisciplinary approach in educational, cultural, natural, and religious studies. This issue also includes discussions on the impact of the Anthropocene on education and the role of pedagogy and religious education in shaping pro-ecological attitudes.  The central question addressed is: How can education counteract phenomena such as alienation, prejudice, and stereotypical thinking? The overall aim of this issue is to showcase the diversity of value systems and their influence on the process of shaping educational ideas and thoughts.