The goal of civic education, as discussed in this paper, is responsible political activism. Although the word activism tends to conjure a negative image of a revolutionary student body for some, the term is used here to express active participation in the decision making process, respect for others' opinions, and upholding one's beliefs. In this…

The purpose of this study guide is to provide a structured aid for developing an understanding of the basic differences between, and the values of, democracy and communism. It is designed to highlight the differences in the development and establishment of these two systems, the basic values upon which each is founded, the differences in their…

In this speech, Cremin points out a fundamental problem in the progressive theory of education, proposes a revision of the theory, and suggests implications of that revision for public policymaking in education. (CD)

The society's and the school's obsessive avoidance of conflict and insistence that "there are two sides to every issue" deadens students to outrage and injustice. (JH)

Discusses the need for the school press to attempt to bring about constructive changes in student government; outlines four editorial objectives that the student press should aim for in its coverage of student government. (GW)

Examines the potential conflict between majority rule and minority consent. Discusses the Civil War as a case in point of the two doctrines being unable to coexist peaceably. (DB)

The author attempts to provide a cultural perspective of the 1976-77 educational reform in Greece by focusing on the values, implicit or explicit, in the reform measures. (Author/RK)

Contrasts Karl Popper's theory of social reform with a Marxist theory of reform. Concludes that a liberal approach to educational reform, as exemplified by A.S. Neill's self-governing school at Summerhill, is generally more satisfactory. (Author/DB)

Although Congress now recognizes education as central to America's economic standing, education should also be supported to sustain democracy. Scholar R. Freeman Butts argues that civic learning is education's "prime purpose." Administrators should work to instill commitment to the common good so that America continues to select rational, humane…

The advantages and disadvantages of laws mandating openness in decision-making are outlined, and their particular relevance in the case of collegial decision-making is discussed. (MSE)

Summarizes author's expert witness testimony in West Virginia court case (1985) involving prayer in public schools. Covers the constitutional issue of separation of church and state, the specific issue of school prayer, the particular law under legal challenge, and the perceptions of a Catholic boy and a Jewish girl directly affected. (NH)

Provides evidence challenging the notions that education produces liberation from intergroup negativism or a superficial democratic commitment. Instead, suggests that the well educated are but one step ahead of their peers in developing a defense of their interests resting on qualification, individualism, obfuscation, and symbolic concessions.…

The "crisis" in American education is seen as a major opportunity for American educators. An effective educational system is essential to three things that Americans have valued more than enlightment: the opportunity for individual advancement, a prosperous economy, and political and social stability. (MLW)

Society is changing, and a new consensus must be reached about the purposes of civic education. All those with an interest--not just educational theorists--should participate in shaping this consensus. Teacher educators must teach student teachers to share in this process and link their ideas to moral issues. (PP)

Experimental schools run by the democratic method, with students having an equal voice in decisions on school government, reveal the importance of educating and preparing the young for understanding the obligations of enlightened citizenship in a democratic society. (JD)