Reading, writing, and justice : school reform as if democracy matters /

Fraser argues that the primary purpose of education in a democracy is to teach students to be democrats. A reconstructionist, the author insists that schools must become primary sites for the construction of an inclusive, socially just democratic society. Fraser's democrats would have the opportunity and duty to build the emerging society, rather than being limited to intermingling within what is. This democracy must be more than capitalism; in fact, his analysis locates the school between the conflicting and incompatible imperatives of capitalism and democracy. Fraser's analysis of current educational reform is situated within his democratic project. Progressives are encouraged to participate in the politics of proposed educational changes; however, their involvement, though necessarily pragmatic, must be uncompromisingly committed to the project. This project is not avant-gardist; instead, Fraser's epistemology demands that all have worthwhile and necessary contributions to make. In the end, Fraser's admirable project may need assistance from those who are not yet aware or convinced of the alleged opportunities within the status quo. All collections. R. A. Brosio; Ball State University