Book Description

As democracy faces increasing struggles around the globe, there has never been a more important time to talk about civic education and the core democratic purposes of schooling. What Kind of Citizen? asks readers to imagine the society they would like to live in and then shows how schools can make that vision a reality. This updated edition responds to the many challenges that have occurred since this book was first published, such as a global pandemic, social justice protests, a rise in autocratic leaders, anti-woke laws, and more. Westheimer brings his now-classic text up to date with groundbreaking analyses of current policies, including those in Florida, Texas, and Arizona; standardized testing; prohibitions on teaching about race and racism; plus a new section on teacher education. There are many ways to teach children and young adults to engage critically with their world, but instead teachers are forced to test-prep for a narrow set of academic subjects. This book shows readers how schools can get back on track by creating more engaging, more democratic learning. PRAISE FOR THE FIRST EDITION— “A timely and important book that will prove valuable to a wide audience . . . a valuable addition to teacher education programs that seek to challenge preservice teachers to understand themselves as stewards of democracy and justice.” —Jonathan Zimmerman, New York University “Highly recommended for anyone interested in Ôreconnecting education to democracy’. . . (Westheimer’s) constant connection with everyday experiences makes the reading very pleasurable, and reminds readers of the important place of emotion in education and politics.” —Nel Noddings, Stanford University “This book will have anyone with a vested interest in the future citizens of our world pausing to question the education system as we know it . . . A good read for teachers in need of some inspiration or for anyone looking for more insight into education in America.” —William Ayers, activist and author