The real meaning of education is trilateral development – simultaneous development in the physical, mental and spiritual realms of human existence. This development should enhance the integration of the human personality. By this, dormant human potentialities will be awakened and put to proper use. Educated are those who have learnt much, remembered much and made use of their learning in practical life.
— Shrii P.R. Sarkar
NHE strives for a harmonious balance between inner development and objective engagement and service in the world:
◊ Expanding the heart
We each have a circle of love within which we place those most dear to us. Neohumanist Education seeks to help students expand that circle to ultimately include everyone and everything. We do this through the example of teachers, exposing them to stories from around the world, providing opportunities for service, and meditation. You might wonder what the connection is between meditation and the expansion of love? Moving the mind towards consciousness, and away from materialism, helps us transcend our differences and create a sense of unity with the consciousness of all things. It is ironic, but true, that looking within can make one want to reach out to others!
◊ Freeing the mind
The mind is the lens through which we engage with life. It leads us into the world in wonder and awe. It delights in beauty, challenges injustice and dogma, and ultimately mobilizes our rational capacities into action. Intellect grows through a variety of means such as academic learning, self-knowledge, exposure to great culture, practical experience, and personal connections. While honing our knowledge, the natural human tendency to expand beyond social and geographical limitations is nurtured. This cultivates a broadminded rationality that serves as the gateway to realizing our full potential, both individually and collectively.
◊ Serving for a just and sustainable world
At the core of a Neohumanist Education is the practice of cardinal ethical principles. Learning selfless service creates a compassionate community where nobody is left behind. An awakened conscience drives a desire for social and environmental justice. In Neohumanist Education, all subjects: arts, science, literature, math, etc., provide an opportunity to apply learning in the service of all. When values are translated into action, a sense of purpose and connection is achieved
E Enlargement of mind
D Discipline
U Universal outlook
C Character
A Active habits
T Trustworthiness
I Ideation of the Great
O Omniscient grace
N Nice temperament
