Drawing on the analysis of discursive shifts in the constructions of teachers' roles during the twentieth century in the Russian Federation, this paper argues that pedagogy becomes redefined based on the political elites' vision for the society's future. During the Soviet era, teachers were expected to play a key role in social transformation. In…

This paper studies transformations in the role of higher education in Russia as represented in official Soviet and post-Soviet policy documents between the 1950s and 2013. The focus is on the categories defining the purposes and tasks of higher education in the larger context of society and economy. There is a basic dichotomy in relation to the…

Currently, the place of play in schooling and education is controversial. Even in pre-school, where play is most likely to be found, its status is often precarious. This article notes that in many ancient religious traditions, play is sometimes viewed as sinful, whereas work, its antithesis, is seen as virtuous. The German educationist, Friedrich…

This book is divided into four parts. In Part One the author considers the natural factors which have influenced the various national systems of education. They comprise racial, linguistic, geographical and economic factors. In Part Two he considers the contribution of religious traditions to education, more particularly those of the Catholic and…

Reports that the World Congress of Psychiatry voted to condemn the Soviet Union for the abuse of psychiatry for political purposes. (SL)

Calls for new textbooks to teach Russian literature. Complains of inappropriate wording for young people, officious and boring content, and a lack of humanistic themes in existing textbooks. Suggests that a text be compiled from among the best literary and critical articles to develop in students a love and understanding of literature. (DK)

Designed for teachers of undergraduate students with some familiarity with political theory, moral philosophy, and social history, this course outline focuses on individual rights and their realization in the United States and the world at large. The syllabus, arranged in 3 major parts, is subdivided into 16 sections that outline major course…

Critically responds to an article by Aleksandr Tsipko. Argues that Soviet economic development has been marred not by a failure to accommodate the human factor, as Tsipko suggests, but by a lack of individual self-evaluation. Contends that successful socioeconomic progress depends upon individual moral development. (CH)

Considers perestroika's implications for Soviet recognition of sources of human motivation. Critically examines how the collectivist ideology endemic to twentieth-century Russian history failed to consider human nature. Attributes Soviet economic problems to a disregard of the need for individual autonomy and dignity. Calls for a reconsideration…

Identifies links in Soviet continuous education from preschool to postsecondary study, and their objectives. Discusses lifelong learning as a means of keeping pace with socioeconomic and technological developments. Advocates democratic and humanistic reforms in the Soviet educational system in response to the political changes of perestroika. (CH)

The document contains eight lectures addressing a variety of educational trends, issues, and concerns. The objective is to heighten the awareness of educational challenges that must be met and to promote continued professional renewal activities. Lecture I discusses fundamental problems concerning world education, concentrating on hunger and…