Cardinal Newman on the Idea of a University and Liberal Education

When John Henry Cardinal Newman gave series of lectures to the audiences at Dublin University, he was setting out his view as to what a liberal education should be. Since its first publication in 1852, his wellknown book, The Idea of a University, has been inspiring numerous readers who want to explore the true meaning of liberal education. For Newman, university liberal education and liberal pursuits are exercises of mind, of reason, of reflection, not for any utilitarian purposes. Those who sought such an education should see themselves as gentlemen intellectuals who might seek a specific career only after they achieved their University degree. The aim of this paper is to explore the value of Newman's elevated idea of liberal education from the perspective of philosophy of education. The author takes a position to defend for him, and try to provide a justification for the importance of liberal education in today's world. Some comments from scholars like Alasdair Maclntyre and D. G. Mulcahy will be employed to justify our viewpoints. In conclusion, some points will be made to elucidate the meanings and aspirations of Newman's thought on liberal education in the 21st century.