A comparative study on educational philosophies of Hồ Chí Minh and John Dewey: values, differences, and potentials for integration in Vietnam’s educational reform

Abstract

In the context of Vietnam’s ongoing educational reform, comparing major educational philosophies provides a crucial foundation for strategic orientation. Hồ Chí Minh, with his humanistic philosophy emphasizing holistic human development, and John Dewey, a representative of Western experimental education, have laid down two distinct yet influential value systems from the East and the West. This paper analyzes and compares their core values, identifies fundamental differences, and evaluates the potential integration of their strengths into Vietnam’s educational transformation. The study highlights not only their shared commitment to learner-centered and holistic education but also the complementary nature and tensions between the two traditions when applied in practice. Accordingly, the paper proposes solutions to build a modern, democratic, and creative Vietnamese education system rooted in national identity and international integration.