As teachers, it is our responsibility to provide students with a thorough and comprehensive education about various social and cultural movements that have shaped our society. One such movement is the hippie movement which originated in the 1960s and had a significant impact on the way people lived, dressed, and thought about the world. In this article, we will discuss how to teach students about hippies and their ideology.

Introduction to Hippies

The first step in teaching students about hippies is to provide them with a brief introduction to the movement itself. This can be done by giving them an overview of the historical context in which the hippie movement emerged. This includes topics such as the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Cold War. By placing the hippie movement within its historical context, students can better understand why young people at the time were drawn to this counterculture.

The Philosophy of Hippies

Hippies were a young generation that rejected the mainstream values of their parents, including materialism, consumerism, and conformity. They believed that there was more to life than acquiring material possessions and climbing the social ladder. The hippie philosophy encouraged people to find meaning in life through exploring spirituality, music, art, and nature.

Teaching students about the philosophy of hippies can be done in several ways. For instance, teachers can use music and art to illustrate the ideas of the movement. They can also provide students with readings, such as articles, books, and essays, that discuss the hippie philosophy. By exploring the hippie ideology, students can develop a better understanding of the counterculture of the 1960s and why it was so attractive to young people at the time.

The Lifestyle of Hippies

Apart from their philosophy, hippies were also known for their unique lifestyle. They rejected mainstream fashion and instead created their own style based on a combination of India and Native American culture. They also practiced communal living and rejected traditional family structures.

Teaching students about the lifestyle of hippies can be done through various activities. For instance, teachers can ask students to organize a fashion show featuring hippie clothing. They can also create a mini hippie community within the classroom and experiment with shared living arrangements. These activities can help students gain a better understanding of the hippie lifestyle and how it relates to their philosophy.

Conclusion

Teaching students about hippies is an essential part of providing a comprehensive education about social and cultural movements. By exploring the philosophy and lifestyle of hippies, students can develop a better understanding of the counterculture of the 1960s and its impact on society. With this knowledge, students can better empathize with the perspectives of others and develop a more nuanced understanding of global culture.