Discusses the implications of postmodernism for the field of the history of education, specifically from the point of view of theory and methodology. Briefly reviews theoretical applications and their leading adherents in Britain. Concludes that postmodern theory should make historians more self-reflective. (MJP)

Reviews the contributions and educational philosophy of Herbert Spencer. The 19th-century social philosopher was an advocate of Pestalozzianism, an early form of open education and a precursor to John Dewey's progressive education. Discusses a broad range of educational reform movements and how they influenced Spencer. (MJP)

Criticizes the conservative movement's dismissal of class inequities in the British school system. Maintains that any critical analysis of social democratic alternatives to the current system must address the ways that class identities and social destinies are reproduced through state schooling. Doubts the efficacy of managerialist technically…