Uncertainty in Education and the Concept of Commitment

An Examination on the Basis of G. E. M. Anscombe's Principle of Side Effects

Abstract

Accountability and responsibility in education have been urged by stakeholders such as parents, community members, and the society. These stakeholders demand quality and comprehensibility in school education. However, the features of education are often inconsistent with the concepts of accountability and responsibility, because the effects of education tend to be beyond teachers' intentions. Thus, education has a tragic sense, and unfortunately is dependent on luck. This study aims to elaborate on the concept of commitment, and on what is needed to satisfy stakeholders' expectations, by referring to G. E. M. Anscombe's principle of side effects. The principle requires agents to distinguish between "intending" and "not intending but foreseeing" their actions, and to identify their actions. The principle supports the agents, even if their actions result in negative consequences. Anscombe's discussion on the principle can be seen as the basis for the concept of commitment requiring stakeholders' agreement. With the stakeholders' approval, teachers' conduct can satisfy stakeholders' expectations. Therefore, under this condition, teachers' commitment can be an alternative to the accountability and responsibility.