Nov. 17, 2021 | 3 p.m. MT | CASE Chancellor's Hall | In-person and live stream | Free and open to the public | This event has taken place

Event Banner

What does the history of liberalism teach us about the proper role of civic education?

About this Event

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?

Event Speakers

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.

About NAS

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.