THE POWER OF CARING: NEL NODDINGS’ CONTRIBUTIONS TO PHILOSOPHY AND EDUCATION

Nel Noddings, a prominent philosopher and educator, has made significant contributions to the fields of philosophy and education through her exploration of the ethics of care. Her work emphasizes the importance of caring relationships as the foundation of moral education and pedagogical practice. This research paper examines Noddings’ key ideas, including her critique of traditional ethical theories, her development of care ethics, and its implications for educational systems. By analysing her writings and their impact, this paper highlights how Noddings’ philosophy challenges conventional approaches to education and offers a transformative framework for fostering empathy, responsibility, and interconnectedness in schools and society. The findings underscore the relevance of care ethics in addressing contemporary educational challenges and promoting a more humane and equitable world.