The Ideological Myth of Education: A Critical Reflection

Overview & Synopsis

When reflecting critically on issues of education in society it is necessary to consider the following question: in what scientific paradigm should educational theory and practice be located in order to address issues of education in society in an educationally responsible manner? In this essay, I argue that for education theory and practice to address issues of education in an educationally responsible manner, it is necessary that educational theory and practice be located in the tradition of the human sciences. The human sciences have their origin in values that have to do with the human condition. This being the case, education theory and practice should not be sacrificed in the service of educational policies that are driven by an ideological intent be it political, cultural, social or economic. In the event of such a categorical misplacement of intent, I would argue that the resultant politicisation and en-culturalisation of education gives rise to the ideological "myth" of education that in turn leads to the demise of the responsible role of education in society. What is needed to make education theory and practice a responsible force in society is the return of education theory and practice to the tradition of the human sciences.