A Primer of Libertarian Education

By Joel Spring

Book Overview

In this classic anarchist work, Joel Spring uncovers a long and often overlooked tradition of libertarian thought in education. From Rousseau and William Godwin to A.S. Neill and Paulo Freire, A Primer of Libertarian Education traces how radical thinkers have challenged authoritarian models of schooling and asked what it truly means to educate for freedom. Spring delves into enduring questions: Can teaching promote independence without imposing rigid ideology? What is the difference between schooling and real learning? How does libertarian child-rearing disrupt traditional family structures? Alongside well-known figures, he introduces lesser-known but equally powerful voices, including Max Stirner, Francisco Ferrer, Wilhelm Reich, and Leo Tolstoy. With clarity and urgency, Spring offers a compelling vision of the directions radical educational change can take.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0919618618
• ISBN13: 9780919618619
• Release Date: July 1975
• Publisher: Black Rose Books
• Length: 157 Pages

Customer Reviews

A Well Researched, Fascinating Exploration of the Relationship Between Educational Systems and Socia

This is an excellent book for anyone interested in alternative educational theories and systems. Joel Spring expertly melds a history of modern education practices with critiques from prominent thinkers in the field, while exploring various alternative models from around the world. While it is true that this book does not urge educators to employ the numerous examined theories and practices, it does offer broad exposure to a myraid of fascinating experiments in alternative education. The goal of this book is not to offer new dogmas for educators. Instead, it is offered as a launching pad for those interested in finding new ways to structure our education system and society with the objective of maximizing individual liberty, justice and social harmony.