Susan T. Gardner

Susan T. Gardner (PhD, Concordia University, 1981) serves as a Lecturer in Philosophy within the School of Humanities at Capilano University. Holding advanced degrees from Oxford University (M.Litt and B.Phil) and McGill University (BA and BN), she brings decades of academic experience to her teaching and research. Her educational background spans philosophy, sociology, psychology, and nursing, creating a uniquely interdisciplinary perspective.

Gardner's research focuses primarily on critical thinking and Philosophy for Children (P4C), with recent scholarship examining civil discourse, educational philosophy in uncertain times, and the relationship between freedom and predictability. She argues that 'a necessary condition of a well-lived life is that one learn how to think well,' emphasizing impartial evaluation of contradictory viewpoints as essential to meaningful education. Her teaching methodology transforms classrooms into 'Communities of Philosophical Inquiry' where students develop mental flexibility through structured dialogue.

Her publication record shows remarkable productivity through 2025, with articles spanning educational philosophy, ethics, and political theory. Recent work addresses contemporary challenges including 'woke' culture, technological addiction, and liberal tolerance. Gardner's research demonstrates consistent engagement with both theoretical philosophical questions and practical educational applications, particularly through her P4C framework.

Gardner directs the Vancouver Institute of Philosophy for Children (1995-present) and the Thinking Playground P4C camp at University of the Fraser Valley (2014-present). As Vice-President of the International Council of Philosophical Inquiry with Children (2017-present) and co-director of the North American Association of the Community of Inquiry, she maintains significant leadership roles in global P4C initiatives. Her editorial work with Analytic Teaching and Philosophical Praxis further demonstrates her commitment to advancing philosophical education.

Her book Thinking Your Way to Freedom: A Guide to Owning Your Own Practical Reasoning (Temple University Press, 2009) represents a major contribution to critical thinking pedagogy. Through her institutes, summer camps, and international conference organization, Gardner actively translates philosophical theory into practical educational settings for both children and teachers.