Against Aristotelian Character Education

This book argues that Aristotelian character education cannot work in liberal democracies today. It shows that when we clearly understand the basic structure of Aristotle’s value theory and correctly grasp the core requirements of liberalism, we will see that they are incompatible with one another through and through.

Neo-Aristotelian theories of character have been immensely influential, receiving endorsements from academics, educators, and elected representatives, while establishing and influencing major academic centers and numerous K-12 schools, especially in the UK and US. This book argues that despite its meteoric rise and its widespread public influence, neo-Aristotelian character education should be rejected. The author argues that the underlying structure of the theory is incompatible with the sort of value pluralism and anti-paternalism which liberal democracies require. The main features which make Aristotelianism attractive—its robust theory of human flourishing which grounds character and its account of the virtue of practical wisdom—are the very same features which make its educational theory illiberal. Understanding the problematic structure of neo-Aristotelian education helps us to better grasp the demands of liberal democracy while also bringing attention to the neglected question of how education for democratic citizenship can be made to fit with equal respect and tolerance of all liberal-compatible ways of living and worldviews.

Against Aristotelian Character Education is essential reading for scholars and graduate students interested in philosophy of education, education theory, virtue ethics, practical wisdom, political theory, and Aristotle.