Humanism, Islamic Education, and Confucian Education

Abstract

This article explores and compares the salient characteristics and educational influences of humanism in both Islam and Confucianism. It is argued that the humanist tradition in both belief systems upholds the development and transforming ability of human beings. A common aim of education is to nurture God/Way-conscious and virtuous individuals who fulfill their calling on earth by achieving perfection. Rather than advocating textual transmission, didacticism, and rote-memorization, the humanist tradition in both Islam and Confucianism supports a broad-based curriculum and promotes active learning pedagogies.