Knight’s textbook surveys the philosophies and philosophic issues relevant to Christian education. Teachers, students of education, and other readers will find this book a “helpful guide for analyzing educational purposes and practices in the light of their basic beliefs.” Besides investigating the relationship between philosophy and education and discussing how philosophies have affected contemporary practices in the classroom, Knight offers a Christian approac… More >>
Knight’s work is strong in that it begins with the fundamentals of Christian education and builds outward as the reader’s understanding broadens. He does not presuppose that the reader is already grounded in the basics of Christian educational philosophy, and structures his own educational system accordingly. The reader is taken through a classroom of understanding as Knight guides him through basic philosophy, various educational philosophies which have sprouted from these ideas, and finally their implications on Christian education. In doing so, Knight clearly builds upon his basic premises that life’s goals are rooted in philosophical ideas and that there is a definite connection between philosophical goals and educational practice. It seems clear that if Knight’s purpose in writing Philosophy and Education was “to survey those aspects of philosophy that are relevant to the educational profession and to highlight the relationship between philosophical starting points and educational outcomes,” then he accomplished this purpose with grace and style.
Rating: 3 / 5
Traditional educational philosophies are helpful to some degree, for instance Knight points out that postmodernists’ interest in social issues is similar to those listed in the Bible (94). Though there are some truths expressed in various philosophies, they all fail in their understanding of the human condition (133). Knight is careful to distinguish the uniqueness of Christian education, which is a “redemptive act”-one that seeks to reconcile students to the image of God (198). Since teachers are “agents of reconciliation” (200), it is important that they have a personal relationship with Christ (207). Knight describes teaching as the “art of loving God’s children” (209). This love for students and truth is what fuels the central philosophy of Christian education, which is based on God as Creator, the disparity between good and evil, the consequences of sin and humanity, God’s revelation of Himself through the Bible, and knowledge of His loving kindness and mercy (241). The very essence of Christian education is that “life is meaningless outside of Christ” and educators are to guide students to the same conclusion (242). All students, regardless if they are a believer or nonbeliever, should be given an opportunity for a life in Christ. Although Knight states that Christian education is a “redemptive act” and teachers are “agents of reconciliation,” pointing students to the Savior is not confined to Christian institutions. If given the opportunity, Christian teachers can use their student’s negative life situations to talk about Christ. Knight puts the correct perspective of teaching: no matter where a believer teaches, the main objective is always the same-to be used as an instrument in drawing people to Christ.
Rating: 4 / 5
Having taken the course “Philosophy of Education” and having to use many textbooks, one of which was “Philosophy and Education: An Introduction in Christian Perspective” by George R. Knight, I was given a broad perspective of what the philosophies of education are. This book centers on the philosophy that is held by most major monotheistic religions and the author does not presuppose that the reader is already grounded in the basics of Christian educational philosophy because the book is intended for use in the Christian environment. I recommend this book to those that want to have a broader perspective in educational philosophy.
Rating: 5 / 5
I purchased this book for a class and was very impressed by the thorough and interesting way the material was presented. Many philosophical views are considered and brought to light from a Christian perspective as well. It is a great resource tool for me to use in the future.
Rating: 4 / 5
Wow! I always thought philosophy to be boring however, this book made the subject matter clear and very comprehensible. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and expanding my knowledge. If you have always had an adverse reaction to philosophy then this is the book for you. Happy reading!
Rating: 5 / 5