Learn how to think, not what to think

We’re Philosophy For Youth, a registered not-for-profit in Ontario offering educational programs in philosophy for high school youth.

Sponsored by the American Philosophical Association, Philosophy Summer Academy is a program for students in grades 9-12 hosted at Markham District High School.

Early bird registration ends on May 31st!

Politics, Law, & Philosophy
July 29 - August 2

Applied Ethics & Social Issues
August 12 - August 16

Why Philosophy?

THINK CRITICALLY

Learn how to assess an argument or examine the implications of an idea. When you apply this habit of critically reflecting on information to your own life, you make better judgements and well-reasoned opinions.

CULTIVATE CURIOSITY

Slowing down to spend some time assessing complex questions instills a sense of wonder and awe about the world. Stay curious by appreciating how the bigger picture and finer details work together to support ideas and worldviews in nuanced ways.

IMPROVE WRITING AND LOGIC

On the Graduate Record Exam, philosophy students outperform every other field in verbal reasoning and analytical writing [source]. Similarly, philosophy students score highest on the Law School Admissions Test, tied only with students of economics. [source]

Student Feedback

Student (Grade 9), 2023 Philosophy Summer Institute

“Philosophy can be an interesting topic; it's extremely broad. But without the right teacher it's very hard to grasp anything at all. That's why I'm thankful to the teachers at Philosophy For Youth for providing me with the detail, knowledge, and answers to use not just in philosophy, but in every subject that stems from it.”

Student, 2023 Philosophy Summer Institute

“The program was interesting and fun. The instructors were well-informed and invited you to consider all opinions whilst challenging your own. They promoted and achieved an inclusive environment where everyone was free to share their thoughts.”