“Education should focus on intellectual virtues such as curiosity, openness, and the love of truth. Conservative education should also serve to preserve cultural heritage and provide moral education for the youth, without neglecting critical thinking.”
The discussion began with the speakers referencing the philosophy of Hannah Arendt, who emphasizes the conservative idea of protecting children against the challenges of the world. According to Arendt, conservatism highlights the recognition of order and nature in the world, as well as the preservation and transmission of tradition.
The discussion also touched upon the concept of intellectuals, which the participants divided into two main types. The first type is the technocratic professionals, who deal with the laws of the economy and operate within the system. The second type is the intellectuals, who have a broader vision and a different intellectual horizon from technocrats. Szabolcs Nagypál, head of the MCC Law School, characterized these two types in the 21st century based on Ortega: it is crucial whether an expert has deep knowledge in only one field, while an intellectual is someone “who knows everything about something and something about everything.” This latter interpretation includes general culture and broad awareness alongside deep professional knowledge.
The role of intellectuals is emphasized by the “Conservative School” in education. Education should have intrinsic value and not merely serve a broader social agenda. It should focus on intellectual virtues, including curiosity, openness, and the love of truth. Education should help in acquiring the understanding and interpretation of the world.
János Setényi, director of the Institute of Learning Research, highlighted that despite challenges, the MCC strives to promote the preservation and dissemination of conservative values through strategies and programs that consider Hungarian and Central European cultural and historical traditions. The programs emphasize the practical application of values, where understanding and practicing principles are paramount. The MCC places great importance on small group education and provides various mentoring support to students.
The speakers emphasized the importance of cultural and religious traditions, as well as the question of teacher-authority in education, with particular attention to the master-student relationship. János Setényi highlighted that based on the authority of the teacher, the transmission of values and the formation of a value system are considered necessary. Schools should approach changes cautiously, considering the consequences, and prioritize the gradual transmission of values to preserve the heritage of civilization.
Szabolcs Nagypál emphasized the importance of philosophy, which helps interpret the world, provokes thought, and teaches wisdom, contributing to understanding life. This strategy focuses not only on professional knowledge but also on the deeper meaning and values of human life, complementing strictly structured educational approaches.
Richárd Fodor, research leader at the Institute of Learning Research and moderator of the discussion, raised the issue of civic education. He explained that it has a 250-year tradition in Hungary, whereas in the context of European strategic documents, it only appeared as a goal in the early 2000s, first in the United Kingdom. The historical depth, the integration of the constitution, and the state structure create a foundation that strengthens national identity and contributes to the formation of civic consciousness.
In the final thought experiment, the speakers suggested elevating the level of abstraction and the criticism of debates on education. They emphasized that discussions about education should take place at a higher level, addressing more abstract principles and strategies, and paying less attention to everyday disputes and political views.
Conservatives face challenges in the Western world, especially in a country where years of communism have influenced conservative thinking. The need for constructive dialogue and cooperation is felt internationally, which is why the Institute of Learning Research is organizing a closed seminar and an open conference on the topic in Brussels on February 12-13, and the Hungarian public can gain deeper insight at the MCC Budapest Summit on February 27-28.
