Vanna Iori. “Being-for-education”: the title of a lifetime

Abstract

The ethics of care, as the foundation of a a more just and supportive society, has always been at the heart of the intellectual, social and political commitment of Vanna Iori, one of the most authoritative voices in Italian pedagogy. From her focus on the family, to her research and training activities on emotional life, right through to her political commitment in Parliament, the Reggio Emilia-born educationalist has tirelessly dedicated herself to issues of great existential and social significance, in support
of the most vulnerable. This essay aims to outline her profile as a scholar, researcher, intellectual and politician through a reconstruction of the main achievements in the many fields that have characterised her life. The mastery of her teaching is further attested to by the testimonies
of those who knew her closely and were able to appreciate her generous willingness to help, as well as her commitment to nurturing relationships and an unwavering focus on the human aspects of existence.