The selling of academic freedom, both on college campuses and in public schools, reflects a certain tension between liberal and conservative forces. Over half a century ago, Harold Rugg's writings, like his textbooks, looked at social problems and how they could be solved. Rugg fell victim to those academic silencers, or gatekeepers of democracy,…

Provides historical information on Harold Rugg and the Social Reconstructionist movement. Contends the social issues-centered method should be used within social studies education. Discusses a social issues model that exposes preservice teachers to the social issues-centered model and focuses on a case study on California Proposition 187. (CMK)