How have sociohistorical developments influenced the nature of the college experience over time? In what ways have these changes impacted the responsibilities of higher education relative to the moral and ethical development of students? This article reflects the thinking of a seasoned senior executive regarding these questions.

A society can educate all its members to be more creative than Aristotle's "ideal choosing agent" if it can encourage them to conform to certain standards while at the same time educating them to express individual proclivities. (JD)

An outline of Kohlberg's formulation of moral development is presented. The development of empathy is considered central to moral development since it is the basis for the motivation to help others. A value-centered curriculum is suggested, but it is argued that moral development is not merely a matter of education. (JN)

H. Michael Sokolow's position on whether or not educational institutions should be regarded as morally responsible (in reference to various important contemporary problems) is critiqued, and an alternative view of educational institutions' moral responsibility is offered. (Author/CJ)

The role assumed by public schools in teaching affective subjects is discussed. It is argued that public schools have become scapegoats through their incapability of teaching such subjects as sex and drug education, moral development, and values clarification--subjects which should be the responsibility of the family and church. (FG)

Discusses how reverence toward life should become a major organizing concept for social studies instruction. Provides 16 curricular examples that can increase student awareness of reverence and lack of reverence toward life. Contends our primary aim should be to help students investigate these situations and facilitate self-evaluation and action…

Perspectives on the cultural obligations of higher education are presented in this collection of papers. Higher education's possible and probable cultural function is addressed from the perspective of business, the arts, education, and religion. Also discussed is the role of institutions of higher education in establishing a system of values,…

The university's many social and ethical responsibilities are examined in this book by the president of Harvard University. After a discussion of the traditional values of academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and political neutrality, ways that the university's desire for autonomy can be reconciled with the legitimate demands of state and…

Presents the National Council for the Social Studies' position paper on character education. Calls for a renewed effort by social studies educators, schools, and communities to teach character and civic virtue. Argues that students must be offered a combination of instruction and guidance on civic virtue to counter increasing indifference. (MJP)