Creating Meaning as Goal of Education

The latest «Mitte Studie»study from the Friedrich Ebert Foundation states that education, measured in terms of qualifications, does not play the decisive role when it comes to right-wing political opinions. Knowledge about democratic institutions as opposed to «support for dictatorships», or knowledge about anti-Semitism and National Socialism do not appear to prevent right-wing extremist attitudes. Incidentally, this year's study is the first to analyse the influence of feelings such as loneliness and the ability to feel happiness in general.

What is learnt by way of historical facts clearly needs to enter into a meaningful exchange with the world. The question of young people, «From where do I get strength and certainty for the future?», must be answered. Waldorf education in particular can be of help if it thinks back to its core: dignity, respect and the development of individuality, which is integrated into a positive, resonant approach to the world without becoming egotistical or nationalistic and chauvinistic. The Waldorf school conveys positive basic messages: the world is beautiful, the world is good and the world is worth loving, despite all its insoluble contradictions. For the Waldorf school, the world is not just a random arrangement of things to be used as intensively and effectively as possible, but rather a basic understanding is established about connections beyond contradictions and individual cases. Whether we attribute this to a personal creator or other unifying abstract ideas – what is taught is that the world holds something together that is fragile and that we must protect.

We have tangible and empathetic connections with our global school movement. People in other countries are not abstract and distant, but draw near and become important: we must want, live, protect and sometimes fight for the dignity of all people. Whether they live here, come here or live in other places. We must seek partners for this conviction, strengthen the international character of the Waldorf school movement and make it tangible for all year groups: we belong together on this earth! There are wonderful educational projects to give children inner strength, connectedness to the world and security on their path.

The results of the Mitte Studie 2022/23 are based on a representative survey of the resident adult German population. The survey was conducted between 2 January and 28 February 2023.