The most social URJC with the 'Philosophy in Prison' project

Newsroom

The project led by Philosophy professors at the URJC, Delia Manzanero and Marta Albert, aims to provide the community of inmates in penitentiary centers with tools to promote their introspection, self-knowledge and emotional management through the practical teaching of philosophy. .

'Philosophy in Prison' is developed through initiation workshops, where, through theoretical lessons and practical dynamics, inmates had the opportunity to debate and analyze existential issues, such as sessions dedicated to illness, freedom, loneliness, pain, death and vulnerability. In addition, talks and colloquiums are held outside the centers using the information obtained in the project itself.

Financed by the Development Cooperation and Volunteering Service of the URJC, the initiative involves teachers and inmates in prison, but also officials from penitentiary centers, who receive training in philosophy in parallel to the inmates; The students also participate, who have the opportunity to take part in the training provided.

The final assessment of these activities has been described as “very positive” by all parties involved, considering that it contributes to the education of those who violate the law. Furthermore, from the point of view of social impact, the project manages to bring the University closer to groups generally further away from this institution, and contributes as an agent of change to the improvement of society.

Numerous publications have been made about the project, among which the 'Documentary Video of the Philosophy in Prison Project I' which received the 3rd Prize in the competition of the III Scientific Dissemination Awards of the URJC and the documentary “Philosophy in Prison II”, which includes interviews with inmates, prison officials and members of the URJC teaching team.