This chapter focuses on America competing in the global market by way of reforming the education system. In order to successful reform public schools: discipline will have to be considered. Discipline can be easily obtained through religion.
Religion in schools on many levels assist with structure and appreciation and this in return produces better performance in schools. Religion in general helps mold individuals to become good citizens by instilling good moral behaviors. In many education systems around the world religion is integrated into the learning process. Whether it is morning prayer or reading scripture or religion as a civics it’s a necessary discipline. In order to achieve pluralistic society other societies believe religion should be a part of public education.
In Germany it is believed that religion is a private matter like the U.S., but it is also thought to be a state’s responsibility to develop the whole child. The education system there allows for students to explore their own religion and become tolerant to others. The reasoning behind allowing religion in school is to encourage multiculturalism. Germany government has allowed for Christianity, Judaism and is moving towards Islam being taught in schools. The only religious boundary the government has enforced is found on the national and political arena. Germany doesn’t permit the display of symbols on political, government or national emblems. In the U.S. we do display religious symbols on the national level, yet we don’t allow for religious observations in schools.
In this chapter we are given the reasoning behind the U.S. shift from religion in schools to becoming religious on occasion. It’s understandable why the transition took place due to the earlier religious freedom struggles. Currently we are a diverse society and acknowledging religion in public education can only make for united society, in which we all need to live with one another. In my opinion religion taught for history purposes is not enough. If we want to build American patriotism we need to acknowledge the faith that makes up the population.
How can parents stay committed to our public education system if religion in education is censored? People feel the need to be a part of some organized groups and at times it is through religious outlets. By leaving parents torn between enrolling their children into religious institutions are we really encouraging pluralism in our society?
