Arash Babaei is a specialist in the philosophy of education, a writer, and a researcher in moral development and values education. He is recognized for his active work in philosophy for children, designing innovative workshops, and providing educational counseling, and he also has expertise in AI ethics.
Personal Website: www.arashbabaeip4c.ir
What excites you about philosophy?
What excites me about philosophy is connecting thought with real life. I see philosophy not merely as a theoretical field, but as a horizon for cultivating ethics, awareness, and human values. Philosophical questions, for me, are opportunities to touch the depth of existence, to grasp moral responsibilities, and to discover ways of living more consciously. My excitement lies in exploring how reason and emotion can coexist, and how philosophy can give meaning to education, the moral growth of children, and even the guidance of technologies such as artificial intelligence. For me, philosophy is the moment when thought flows into life.
What are you working on right now?
I am currently working independently on a project in which individual and behavioral data of children in kindergarten and pre-kindergarten are collected and analyzed using artificial intelligence. My goal is to create precise educational profiles that enable parents and educators to guide children’s growth and development more consciously.
What common philosophical dilemma do you think has a clear answer?
Among famous philosophical dilemmas, very few have a completely clear-cut answer, since philosophy primarily explores complex concepts and diverse perspectives. However, one notable example with a relatively clear answer is the issue of moral awareness and personal responsibility. Almost all major ethical frameworks agree on one principle: humans are responsible for their actions and cannot evade moral responsibility by blaming time, circumstances, or external pressures. The answer is clear and shared: as rational and self-aware beings, individuals are accountable for their choices and behaviors, regardless of external conditions or outcomes.
What’s your personal philosophy?
I do not see the world merely as a place to live, but as a field for cultivating values. I believe that being human is inseparable from moral commitment, and that our mission is both self-growth and helping others to grow. For me, education is not just a profession but a way of life—a path to transform mere living into conscious living. In my view, reason and emotion find meaning together, and philosophy matters only when it flows into everyday life. I also believe that one must shape the course of life through self-awareness and choice, rather than simply drifting with the times. Ultimately, I trust in the bond between education, ethics, and technology—especially artificial intelligence—and envision a future where knowledge, morality, and awareness advance hand in hand.
Who is your favorite philosopher and why?
Socrates is my favorite philosopher because he embodies moral curiosity, the pursuit of truth, and reflection on life—qualities I strive for in both my professional and personal journey. I am drawn to his practical philosophy, the application of thought to everyday life, as it aligns with my approach to integrating education, ethics, and technology. He reminds me that questioning, self-awareness, and moral commitment are essential tools for nurturing ethical and conscious human beings.
This section of the APA Blog is designed to get to know our fellow philosophers a little better. We’re including profiles of APA members that spotlight what captures their interest not only inside the office, but also outside of it. We’d love for you to be a part of it, so please contact us via the interview nomination form here to nominate yourself or a friend.
Jessica Castellani
Jessica Castellani had a unique high school experience attending Toledo School for the Arts, where she played in a percussion ensemble and steel drum band for six years. She earned her dual Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Religious Studies from the University of Toledo. Her primary focus was ‘the Self’ and the mystical experience of losing it. She earned her Master of Art in Philosophy from the University of Toledo as well, with a specialization in Comparative Philosophy, Eastern Studies, and Continental Philosophy. She has taught World Religions and Introduction to Philosophy at The University of Toledo both in person and virtually. She is a member of the Buddhist Temple of Toledo, tutors students, and has worked in the service industry for over a decade. In her free time likes to spend time outside and with her pets, friends, and family.
