Presents a model of the development of desociocentering, decentering relative to the social group, which is based on Piagetian research and theory and Wernerian concepts. (Author/SS)

Argues that the acquisition of foreign languages by U.S. students must be established as a national priority to secure the linguistic capabilities necessary to help shape and participate in the future of the shrinking, yet increasingly complex international community. (CB)

The work of a number of American literary critics on the novels of contemporary Spanish women are reviewed. It is argued that the criticism generally suffers from ethnocentrism and lacks insight into the reality of the lives of Spanish women. The works of Matute, Martin, Gaite, and Quiroga, among others, are discussed. (EF)

Refutes the concept that a single and universal tongue is ideal and the rich diversity of languages is an unfortunate state of affairs, pointing out that the mastery of several languages enhances cultural understanding and experience. (eight references) (CB)

Like Antarctica, the fields of cross- and intercultural communication are claimed by many, explored by not so many, and understood by perhaps rather few. The most popular references in this area reflect a "maximalist" perspective, generally cross-cultural, which advocates the view that culture is a monolithic and static entity and that…

The measurement of mental functioning is problematic, especially when Blacks are being assessed. Eurocentric paradigms and expectations are being used to assess Africentric psychology and behavior. Traditional psychometric instruments attempt to reaffirm a belief in the superiority of European culture. Scholars must search for universals in mental…

Social science literature dealing with Chicanos has long pointed to the importance of the family. Unfortunately, many of the generalizations that have been accepted rest on unproved assumptions and rely on negative and stereotyped descriptions. Future research must examine the impact of external social forces on internal family interaction. (RLV)

Moral judgments are an important aspect of social reasoning, not arbitrary products of social formations. Maintains that Gabennesch relegates moral concepts to reification, failing to account for the distinctions between conventionality and moral concepts. (BC)

Provides an introduction to the global education and textbook theme articles in this issue, giving special attention to the National Council for the Social Studies curriculum guidelines. Reviews literature on international political socialization and textbook content and draws implications for achieving a more positive and accurate global…

Some studies indicate that individuals recognize conventional norms as social contrivances; others, that individuals reify social formations as something other than social products. Questions about comparatively transparent rules and the use of simplistic questions for complex phenomena give an exaggerated portrayal of individuals' awareness of…

Reviews difficulties publishers have in adequately representing world regions. Recommends that teachers: (1) use textbooks analytically, (2) provide alternative perspectives, (3) use supplementary materials, (4) incorporate analysis of mass media, (5) take advantage of local resources, and (6) continuously examine and modify their social studies…

Despite the diplomatic advantages of knowing other nations' languages, only 15 percent of American high school students study a foreign language. Expenditures for foreign language instruction should be increased, instruction should begin at the elementary level and continue in college, and international student exchange programs should be…

Examines white counselor self-awareness as an important variable in developing multicultural competence with respect to world view, cultural values, and racial identity. Suggests that counselor self-awareness is a prerequisite for developing multicultural competence, and that an understanding of these factors may improve the delivery of mental…

Two major efforts to redirect the school curriculum that are currently of special concern, not only to educators but to the general citizenry as well, are citizenship education and international or global education. Both deal with the development of competent and responsible citizens whose perspectives, knowledge, and skills will enable them to…

Uses a sociological perspective to examine the work of Sax Rohmer (creator of the Fu Manchu mystery novels) and discuss how popular culture is shaped by and acts to shape public and professional opinions about current events. Demonstrates how Rohmer's novels reflect White supremacist and ethnocentric attitudes. (ML)