Global Citizenship Education and Non-Western Perspectives

Abstract

The three interrelated domains of learning within United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO’s) conceptual dimensions of global citizenship education (GCE) are cognitive, socio-emotional, and behavioral. These correspond to UNESCO’s four pillars of learning that are learning to know, to do, to be, and to live together. This chapter contributes to the cognitive dimension of learning to know through a study of the Asian thinkers, Makiguchi, Gandhi, and Ikeda. Suggestions are made for curricula to have an intercultural focus and engage with non-Western and less widely known perspectives. This can also enhance the practice of GCE. For instance, alternative ways of thinking about and engaging with others can expand the current focus from individual empowerment to an emphasis on enhancing the capacity within students to live a contributive life.