Distinguishing Moral Education, Values Clarification and Religion-Studies. Religion-Studies in Public Education: 1976 Proceedings. American Academy of Religion Section Papers, Number 18.

Overview & Synopsis

The document considers theoretical and practical resources for use by American Academy of Religion members in their clarification of differences among moral education, values clarification, and religion studies. A task force on religion studies in public education has been established by the Academy in response to public interest in re-introducing spiritual values into American society. The background and activities of the task force since 1975 are discussed and a brief analysis of prevalent social and religious influences since Colonial days is presented. A brief overview relates the rationale and goals for religion studies in public education, a selected bibliography, audio-visual resources, and a list of organizations interested in religion curriculum development. The major portion of the document consists of three working papers. The first paper describes major differences and interrelations between moral education and religion studies. The second paper summarizes and evaluates the major movements in contemporary moral education and values clarification and their relationship to religious education in public education. The third paper presents information on projects and applied research activities dealing with religion and moral development in Canada, Great Britain, and the United States. (Author/DB)