This paper examines the nature of radicalism, proposes definitions and dimensions, and suggests the dynamics of radical thoughts and their interrelation with schools. A radical idea is one which is highly divergent from the normative values, behaviors, ideals or traditions of a culture at a point in time. This paper views radical ideas as…

A discrepancy exists between what public school personnel and student teachers perceive as ideal academic freedom and their perceptions of the reality of school life. Interview responses from faculty and administration of a school district and from student teachers reveal that both groups practice the social control mechanism of political…

A rationale for skeptical and controversial teaching about world economics is presented by maintaining that the nature of economics is controversial and that ideology and nationalism are dominant obstacles in economics education. Following an introduction, the first of six sections discusses major stereotypes and perceptions in economics. The next…

Value conflicts are a basic part of social studies instruction; however, the inclusion of these conflicts in social education presents several obstacles: 1) inadequate teacher preparation; 2) stultifying student teaching situations; 3) censor-ridden communities and fearful school administrations; 4) conforming teachers; and, 5) a lack of knowledge…

Compares 1989 National Commission on Social Studies in the Schools' report, "Charting a Course: Social Studies in the 21st Century," to a similar curricular endeavor during the 1930s. Finds the 1989 version conformist, narrow, prescriptive, overly content oriented, and not reflective of educational research. Because of its academic…

Presents a classroom activity designed to involve students in critical thinking and values inquiry concerning the horizontal nuclear proliferation. Provides a set of global values, explaining the conflict between them and nuclear proliferation. Uses indicators, hypothesis development, and testing. Provides sources for material evidence to use in…