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CHOICE Review

Too often, unrevised second editions prove dated and of little value as an acquisition for an academic library. This is not the case with Bestor's 1953 classic indictment of progressivism and professional educational theorists for undermining the quality and effectiveness of education, diluting the meaning of the liberal arts, and failing to provide the intellectual training that cultivates the power to think. This text includes a supplementary note by the author plus retrospective analyses of Bestor's position by Clarence J. Karier and Foster McMurray of the University of Illinois faculty. Bestor's note draws upon the National Commission on Excellence in Education report, A Nation at Risk (1983), to support his position that educational standards continue to deteriorate. Karier, using a historical perspective, defends Bestor's criticisms of the anti-intellectual tendencies of educational theorists, their separation of liberal arts from education, and their too practical approach to curriculum. McMurray, using philosophical analysis, attacks Bestor for promoting an undemocratic elitism, for allowing schools to abdicate responsibility for the academic motivation of students, and for not recognizing that education is a never ending process of inquiry. This text, which includes notes and appendixes, compares favorably with recent quality studies (e.g., Richard H. Powers, The Dilemma of Education in a Democracy, CH, Oct '84) that defend conservative education by attacking progressive educational practices. Highly recommended for the general reading public and undergraduate students.-F.X. Russo, University of Rhode Island