An Exploration into the Teaching of Cosmopolitan Ideals: The Case of ‘Global Citizenship’

Abstract

This article examines why we should continue to teach based upon cosmopolitan ideals, despite the shortfalls of global citizenship as a concept. The author first defines and critically engages with both cosmopolitanism and global citizenship, before identifying where these concepts originate from and tracking their progression throughout time. The article then discusses the different views and values attached to each of these concepts, aiming to distinguish what differences there are between the two. Simultaneously, the author uses examples both from academic literature and his own experiences to date in order to place the theory of these two concepts within the context of modern-day life. Ultimately, however, the author argues to highlight the practical differences which separate cosmopolitan ideals and global citizenship as a concept, concluding that global citizenship fails to take our local context into account, and thus serves as a contradiction to our immediate epistemologies.

Global Citizen Preparation: Enhancing Early Childhood Education through Indonesian Local Wisdom

“…Recently, the importance of education to develop smart global citizens and characters following the national identity cannot be underestimated. As diversity in society is recognized, and local cultural values are included in the dynamics of national and global culture, the intention is to preserve local culture to make each individual adopt a global perspective without ignoring their local or national ethnic identity [7,15]. Some local Sundanese wisdom reflects early childhood education as shown in table 3.…”

“…Discussing the concept of global citizens is often associated with an ideal cosmopolitan concept, as it is assumed that the need for this concept stems from an increasing level of global connectivity. It also involves the exchange and integration of various beliefs, values, and materials that lead to the development of all citizens on a global scale [15]. Therefore, it is necessary to shape a globally recognized identity adequately.…”