Challenges to Democracy In and Beyond Education: American Policy, Politics, and Media in a Cynical Age

This book explores political cynicism as a driving force behind the US democratic crisis, focusing on education, popular culture, and news media as contributors to cynicism. It advocates for a more affirmative discourse, aesthetic education, media reform, addressing inequality, and reining in corporate power to restore hope and empower the people.

Format: Hardback
Length: 212 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the pervasive phenomenon of political cynicism as a central factor contributing to the current crisis of democracy in the United States. It explores the multifaceted nature of the crisis, encompassing the challenges and opportunities presented by education, popular culture, and the news media in fostering and combating cynicism.

By examining historical and contemporary data, policy, and events, the author, Van Heertum, paints a vivid picture of the growth of cynicism, which poses a significant threat to the democratic foundations of American society. The book traces the philosophical, social, and historical roots of this pervasive cynicism, which has found its way into political discourse, media, and educational policies.

In the subsequent chapters, the author examines various strategies for challenging cynicism and restoring hope. These include advocating for a more affirmative discourse that promotes empathy, understanding, and respect; promoting aesthetic education that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a sense of wonder; reforming media and educational systems to promote objective reporting, diverse perspectives, and civic engagement; addressing rampant inequality and promoting social justice; and curbing corporate power to ensure that the interests of the people are prioritized over those of corporations.

The book concludes by advocating for a radical democracy that empowers the people to have a meaningful say in the decisions that affect their lives. It emphasizes the importance of citizen participation, transparency, and accountability in governance, and calls for a collective effort to rebuild trust and strengthen democratic institutions.

This book is a valuable contribution to the field of education, particularly for postgraduate students and researchers interested in educational policy and politics, the sociology of education, and American studies. It offers insightful analysis, practical solutions, and a roadmap for rebuilding a more resilient and democratic society.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367688844