Jiddu Krishnamurti and The Fear of Not Being a “Good” Teacher

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55016/ojs/jet.v54i3.74684

Abstract

Abstract: Fear is a ubiquitous but somewhat underexamined phenomenon in education. In this essay, the author draws on the holistic educational philosophy of Jiddu Krishnamurti in order to reflect on the role of fear in his experiences as a classroom teacher. The author recounts experiences of difficult classroom management in which his fear was piqued. The author then draws on Krishnamurti’s writing to suggest that there is a deep seeded fear of not being a good teacher at the root of the desire to control students’ behaviour. The author concludes the paper by pointing to the need for serious and ongoing self-inquiry within education and society more broadly—a central tenant of Krishnamurti’s educational thought.

Published

2022-01-29