ABOUT US
The Youth Philosophy Symposium is an independent, student-led initiative committed to cultivating critical thought, ethical inquiry, and bold intellectual engagement among young people worldwide.
We are striving to create a global platform where students aged 14–19 can grapple with some of the most pressing ethical and philosophical questions of our time. In an era marked by complexity, contradiction, and uncertainty, we believe that philosophy must not remain confined to the academy - it belongs in the hands of youth.
We are not just hosting a competition - we are building a community of young philosophers.
ABOUT ESSAY COMPETITION
The Youth Philosophy Symposium Essay Competition 2025 is an international competition designed to empower high school students (ages 14–19) to explore complex moral and philosophical questions shaping our world.
This year’s competition challenges students to engage with one of three timely and ethically charged prompts, encouraging thoughtful argumentation, original insight, and philosophical depth. Whether addressing digital censorship, global inequality, or civil unrest, entrants are invited to ask: What is justified? Who decides? And why does it matter?
Participants will develop a short-form argumentative essay (maximum 800 words), drawing on philosophical reasoning, real-world examples, and personal insight. Submissions will be judged by a panel of educators and philosophy enthusiasts for their clarity, originality, and ethical sophistication.
With cash prizes and global recognition, this competition is more than just a contest - it’s an invitation to join a new generation of young thinkers shaping the ethical questions of tomorrow.
THEME / PROMPT
1. "Does the right to free expression outweigh the harms it can cause?"
2. "Is it morally permissible to retain surplus wealth when others lack basic necessities?"
3. "Can violence ever be a legitimate tool for achieving political change?"
RULES
ELIGIBILITY
High school students aged 14–19 worldwide
WORD LIMIT
Max 800 words (excluding title and references)
SUBMISSION FORMAT
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Typed, doublespaced, PDF or Word doc
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Include word count and references
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Must be original work
REGISTRATION & SUBMISSION
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Ensure submission follows format guidelines
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Submit entry by 23:59 GMT+0, 31st August
JUDGING CRITERIA
Entries evaluated by judges to be announced for:
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Insight and originality
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Structure and clarity
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Quality and relevance of evidence
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Deeper analysis and compelling conclusion
PRIZES
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1st Place: $300
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X2 runner ups: $100 each
Timeline (GMT+0)
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Launch & Prompt Reveal: 10th August
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Submission deadline: 31st August
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Shortlist announcements: by 12th September
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Winner announcements: by 21st September