Philosophical and Sociological Bases of Education

Description

Philosophical and Sociological Bases of Education: A Brief Overview

Dr. Sunita Agarwalla’s “Philosophical and Sociological Bases of Education” is a core text for understanding the philosophical and societal underpinnings of education. The book delves deep into the Indian and Western philosophies that have shaped educational thought and practice.

Key Content Areas:

I. Indian Schools of Philosophy and Education

This section explores the roots of Indian education in its philosophical traditions. It covers:

• Basic features and classification of Indian philosophy.
• Yoga and its influence on education, including Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga, and the Eightfold Path.
• Vedanta and its core concepts of Brahma, Atman, Jagat, and Maya, along with its impact on education.
• Buddhism and its Four Noble Truths, Middle Path, and educational implications.
• The overall impact of Indian philosophies on contemporary Indian education.

II. Western Schools of Philosophy and Education

This part examines the Western philosophical foundations of education. It includes:

• Basic features of Western philosophy.
• Idealism and its influence on educational aims, curriculum, methods, teacher roles, and discipline.
• Naturalism and its impact on the same educational aspects.
• Pragmatism and its contributions to educational thought and practice.
• The influence of Western philosophies on the Indian education system.

III. Understanding Education and Society

This section explores the sociological dimensions of education. It covers:

• Sociology of Education and its theories (Conflict and Consensus).
• Education and socialization, including agencies of socialization and education’s role in this process.
• Culture and education, emphasizing education’s role in preserving, transforming, and promoting culture.
• Social change and education’s role in driving it.
• Social mobility and the role of education in upward mobility.
• Economic development and education’s contribution to human resource development.

IV. Education and Political Ideologies

This final section examines the relationship between education and political systems. It covers:

• Constitutional values and their role in education.
• Democracy and its implications for education, including the cultivation of democratic values.
• Totalitarianism and its impact on education in such societies.
• Communism and its educational philosophy.
• Secularism and the role of education in secular societies.

This comprehensive overview demonstrates how the book delves into the philosophical and sociological foundations of education, providing a strong basis for understanding the complexities of educational systems.