Ep. 308 – Learning Is Broken: Sundar Sarukkai on Rethinking Education

In this episode, philosopher Sundar Sarukkai explores what it truly means to learn—beyond exams, skills, and academic performance. We discuss curiosity, ego, indigenous knowledge, and why education often misses the point. A must-listen for students, parents, teachers, and anyone rethinking the purpose of learning in today’s world.

About the guest

Sundar Sarukkai is a philosopher and author whose work bridges science, society, and Indian knowledge systems. He writes and speaks on learning, language, and the philosophy of education, making complex ideas accessible and relevant for today's students, teachers, and curious minds.

Questions

• What is learning, and how do you define a teacher and a student?

• How do children learn so naturally, and can that be extended to adults?

• Why does learning often feel like a burden as we grow up?

• What’s the difference between learning and knowing?

• Is learning a skill or a mindset? Can we teach how to learn?

• What role does ego play in hindering real learning?

• Is there a “right” way to learn, or is jugaad equally valid?

• Should we prioritize learning skills or learning how to learn?

• How do we shift from learning as a means to an end to enjoying the process?

• In today’s world of endless information, how can one build a lifelong habit of learning?

Reference links

• The Cracked Mirror: An Indian Debate on Experience and Theory – OUP

• What is Science? – NBT India

• Philosophy for Children – Ektara

• Experience, Caste, and the Everyday Social – Amazon

• Essay in The Public Intellectual in India – Aleph Book Company

• Phenomenology of Untouchability – EPW

• Articles by Sundar Sarukkai – EPW

• YouTube: Talk on The Cracked Mirror

• YouTube: Ravindra Sharma Guruji – Traditional Knowledge

• YouTube: Philosophy for Children – Intro Series

• Sundar Sarukkai’s Official Website

• IISc Profile – Centre for Society and Policy

• Ashoka University – Centre for Translation

• Barefoot Philosophers Initiative

• Romila Thapar

• Ravindra Sharma Guruji

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You can watch the video on this episode on YouTube

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