The Status of Spontaneous Order in von Hayek’s Theory of Freedom and Its Educational Implications

The Status of Spontaneous Order in von Hayek’s Theory of Freedom and Its Educational Implications M. Moosivand Y. Ghaa’edi, Ph.D. S. Zarghaami, Ph.D. A. R. Mahmoodniyaa, Ph.D. The history of human thought shows that the concept of freedom and its use in different frameworks has been a major topic of discussion in philosophy. Within the educational system, freedom can impact the citizens’ attitude toward the society and reduce the suppression therein. Hence, the discussion of educational freedom, within Hayek’s theory of freedom, can lead to new horizons in regards to its use within different educational systems and challenges they might confront. Freedom through education means acquisition of an independence-seeking, self-motivated, critical, and rational thought. Hayek as a proponent of liberal education, claims personal freedom along with spontaneous order as pillars of such education. Furthermore, he believes that the development of rational thinking is only possible if children are taught to be liberal and critical thinkers. Spontaneous order in education can lead to better learning and understanding of different beliefs and ways of living. Keywords: classic liberalism, spontaneous order, education freedom, individualism, von Hayek