The prominence given in national or state-wide curriculum policy to thinking, the development of democratic dispositions and preparation for the "good life", usually articulated in terms of lifelong learning and fulfilment of personal life goals, gives rise to the current spate of interest in the role that could be played by philosophy…

There is a widespread movement today to prepare all students for college, and it is promoted in the name of democracy. I argue here that such a move actually puts our democracy at risk by forcing students into programs that do not interest them and depriving them of courses at which they might succeed. We risk losing the vision of democracy that…

This article aims to report a single case study of how an Islamic boarding school ("pesantren") in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, prepared students for a multicultural Indonesia. Despite negative portrayal by the Western media about increasing Islamic radicalism in some "pesantren", many "pesantren" are in fact transforming…

This paper develops a basic conceptual framework of values and the valuing process. Section 1, Values and Value Claims, discusses the four different types of value claims (personal, market, real, and implicit) and their relationships. The second section considers the process of rational evaluation as a method of arriving at and supporting value…

The purpose of this bulletin is to stimulate the thought of teachers in discovering their innumerable opportunities for quickening the conscience and clarifying the moral vision of their pupils. The attention of teachers is here directed also to the other reports of the commission, in which are elaborated many of the ideas presented in this…

Recognizing the increasingly racially and ethnically diverse politically disengaged population along with the central role of schools in preparing democratic citizens, this study investigated how 3 skilled secondary social studies teachers taught about and for multicultural democracy to prepare students for active and effective citizenship through…

In the early twentieth century, many American educators pinned their hopes for a revitalized nation on the character education of "youth," especially adolescent boys. Although the emphasis on student morality was far from novel--nineteenth-century common and secondary schools operated as bastions of Protestant republican virtue--new perceptions of…

This newsletter essay explores the conflicts between individual values and community values and efforts to resolve these conflicts under the U.S. Constitution. The paper includes five sections: (1) Introduction; (2) Value Conflicts and the Constitution; (3) Making Value Conflicts Relevant to Students; (4) For Example: The Indiana University…

Offers an "inspirational speech" delivered by Harvard professor Cornel West at the 1994 National Council of Teachers of English convention. Discusses ways in which English teachers can help to keep alive the tradition of struggle for decency, dignity, freedom, and democracy. Shares his belief in the significant role English teachers play in…

Emphasizing Europe's role in the growth of Western institutions and ideals, this guide stresses the development of skills necessary for active participation in democratic processes. An introductory unit on the Renaissance and the Reformation is followed by units on (1) the political events fostering the growth of the modern national state and the…

States that the Founders' legacy is our well-modeled government which is limited by law to protect the life, liberty, and property of individuals. Reviews some of the Founding Fathers' thoughts regarding the proper role and structure of our government. Advocates improved citizenship education and introduces the theme articles in this issue. (JDH)

Places the recent democratic Latvian elections in the context of that country's historic oppression by the Soviet Union, its resulting demographic character, and the emergence of pragmatic political parties. Analyzes the issues, parties, and coalitions that resulted in Grantis Ulmanis' recent victories. Prospects for continuing democracy appear…

Evaluates "Facing Today and the Future: Choosing to Participate," a resource book about citizenship in which students are asked to think about their role in the U.S. democracy through an investigation of case studies about individuals and groups who have tried to make a difference. Recommends this volume as a valuable resource for…

The Great Seal of the United States is an important expression of the values of the Founding Fathers of our nation. This lesson will help students in grades 8-12 investigate the meaning of the symbols incorporated in the Great Seal and, thus, gain insights into the uniqueness of our national aspirations. (RM)

The general purpose of the twelfth grade course is to help the student assume his role as a decision-maker in a democratic society. The nature and complexity of contemporary problems are examined using this guide to enable the student: 1) to analyze alternative solutions to these problems; 2) to develop attitudes and values appropriate to a…