Between the need and sense: Reflections from teaching Anthropology

Abstract

In this article the author begins by underlining the drama of man nowadays, with his lack of existential sense to guide the many possibilites of satisfying all kinds of human needs as well as technical feats. Special emphasis is laid on the anthropological analysis of the problem, highlighting the fact that man cannot be reduced to a simple bio-psycho-social subjectivity (with the mere aim to fulfil himself through the satisfaction of his bodily needs). On the contrary, he is also “something else”, more specifically, a tension of the subject towards the axiological universe to a fulfilment of significant meaningful tasks. This paper ends with some pedagogical corollaries. The most relevant may well be the change of direction of pedagogy from the importance given to the pupil's experiences, interests, etc. , to- a harmony between acceptance and psychological adaptation, proposing meaningful goals. In short, an education of personal responsibility is put forward.