Author Description

While the question of religion in public schools is often a matter of fierce debate, few Americans consider the implication of religious education on moral education and liberal democracy more generally. When it comes to religious education, many assume that only those within a given religious community have any serious interest in the religious content of education, and in the moral education of children in religious schools. This important book seeks to change that perception, demonstrating that what happens within religious schools and the education available to all children, regardless of the school they attend, are public issues. It opens up a critical dialogue in liberal, democratic societies. Drawing on examples from Christian, Jewish, and Muslim schools and on topics from sex education to creationism, Walter Feinberg illustrates from a secular point of view the important role religious schools play in the formation of a democratic citizenry.