Social justice through lifelong education: the balancing of self-directed learning outcomes towards ourselves and others

Social justice is a key principle and foundation of lifelong education. In this editorial, we highlight the challenges currently faced by disadvantaged populations and reveal the possible paradox of selfdirected learning: which, while empowering individuals, may inadvertently narrow the focus on personal advancement at the expense of collective well-being. This editorial aims to point to possible implications of these dynamics and seeks to ignite a conversation about the urgent need to reshape our educational processes in adult education research and practice.