To Restore American Democracy: Political Education and the Modern UniversityRobert E. Calvert At a time when democracy in America suffers from a profound sense of cynicism, lack of trust, and disengagement, especially among young adults, this book is a much needed antidote. Here are original essays by some of the most distinguished and insightful political thinkers of our time. No armchair observers, they have advised presidents, been public servants, testified before Congress, helped other countries draft constitutions, worked as journalists, and won teaching awards. They participate ardently in the polity and civil society they write about here. The main focus of the essays is what role universities might be able to play in reviving a sense of citizenship and civic responsibility in our society. They represent different perspectives and differing opinions, making this a rich stimulus for discussion and action. At stake is nothing less than the future strength of democracy in the United States. |
Contents
Political Education and the Modern University Prologue | 1 |
Between Resignation and Utopia Political Education in the Modern American University | 29 |
Liberal Education and the Civic Project | 45 |
The Media the Mall and the Multiplex Americas Invisible Tutors and the End of Citizenship | 55 |
The Values of Media the Values of Citizenship and the Values of Higher Education | 79 |
Public Spaces and MyUniversitycom | 95 |
The Culture of Expedience Liberal Education Meets the Real World | 117 |
Education and Character in an Age of Moral Freedom | 137 |
How Do We Talk? God Talk and American Political Life | 171 |
Platos Dogs Reflections on the University after 911 | 185 |
The Civic Education of a Black American in a Great Big World | 205 |
Moral Education and Democratic Citizenship | 217 |
Utopias Gone Wrong The Antipolitical Culture of the Modern University and How to Change It | 231 |
| 265 | |
About the Editor and Contributors | 275 |
Democracy Character and the University | 155 |
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