Civic Education: Liberalism and the Role of Virtue

Chancellor’s Hall, 1725 Euclid Avenue,Boulder CO 80309

17 November, 2021

Description

What does the history of liberalism teach us about the proper role of civic education? Americans of all stripes agree that civic education is an essential component of a well-functioning republic. Despite this, there is widespread disagreement about what that civic education should entail. Some believe it should focus on training students in the history of liberalism and of Western civilization, to provide them with the breadth and depth of knowledge necessary to be responsible members of our shared political life. Others believe the focus should be more forward-leaning, encouraging students to engage in democratic protests and to actively involve themselves in the political process. To help us better understand the current debate on civic education in America, the National Association of Scholars and the Benson Center for the Study of Western Civilization have joined together to sponsor this event. As you attend, you will engage with us on questions such as: What does the history of liberalism tell us about how to properly orient our civics education? What role ought the study of Western civilization play in civics instruction? How ought we think about the form and content of the civics education our students receive? Joining us for the event will be: Tim Fuller, Professor of Political Science and former Dean of Faculty and Chair of the Political Science Department at Colorado College. Wilfred McClay, Professor of History at Hillsdale College and author of the widely used history textbook Land of Hope: An Invitation to the Great American Story. This event is hosted by:The National Association of Scholars, which upholds the standards of a liberal arts education that fosters intellectual freedom, searches for truth, and promotes virtuous citizenship. The Bruce D. Benson Center for the Study of Western Civilization, which promotes study of the intellectual, artistic, and political traditions that characterize Western civilization. The Center offers a forum for free inquiry and supports academic freedom and intellectual diversity on campus in a time of increasing political polarization and homogeneity. Boulder County’s current public health orders require all attendees wear masks. The National Association of Scholars is a non-profit, 501(c)(3), organization dedicated to promoting high intellectual standards, individual merit, institutional integrity, good governance, and sound public policy. Membership in NAS is open to all who share our commitment to these broad principles. To join, visit nas.org/join.