Discusses the debate between those who fear that multiculturalism will destroy the cultural unity of the United States and those who believe that diversity is essential to democracy. Explores the role of social studies as the curriculum area designated to educate citizens for democratic participation. Addresses the growing problem of economic…

Addresses the shortcomings of the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) position statement "Fostering Civic Virtue: Character Education in the Social Studies." Challenges the work of the NCSS Task Force on Character Education in the Social Studies on four concerns: (1) necessity and timeliness; (2) generality and specificity;…

Places the current problems concerning citizenship education in Africa in the context of African countries' emergence from colonial rule to democratic government. Maintains that social studies education in Africa must become transformative and interdisciplinary to overcome ethnocentric isolation. Advocates upgrading teacher education and…

Contends that student alienation cannot be solved by improved instructional methodology or curriculum content reform. Argues that the citizenship education goals of social studies cannot be taught effectively because societal values do not support schools or teachers. Provides five suggestions on policies that might address these issues. (CFR)