A Reflection on the Challenges of Teaching a Culture of Cooperation in the Age of Ideological Dominance

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to reflect on the challenges of teaching a culture of cooperation in an era dominated by ideologies. Methodology: The research method is an analytical-deductive approach, categorized under qualitative research. Findings: In the era of ideologies (totalitarian), the control and alignment of individuals, from the international level to interpersonal relationships, occur with the aim of self-centered recruitment. This is manifested in the formation of parties, groups, associations, and sometimes in other forms, which may be visible or concealed. It appears that ideologies such as fascism, nationalism, conservatism, liberalism, and even sects derived from religions, each to varying degrees, adhere to and act upon the belief of "us as good and others as bad." In this research, the approach of ideologies towards the culture of cooperation is outlined. Following this, the potential challenges in educational systems, primarily in the conflict between teacher and educational system, are discussed in four scenarios. An attempt is made to demonstrate how having an ideological mindset, and the meaning of "ally" and "alliance" and its examples in ideological thinking, directs the educational process toward "recruitment." Conclusion: The claim of education based on the foundations of religion, science, and philosophy seems ideal, at least one step ahead of education based on ideology; however, the dominance of ideological thoughts in the reality of societies is a factor in the culture of "recruitment." In this context, teaching and instructional methods feel the shadow of dominant thought. The detailed discussion of this conflict is presented in the text.