Ideas, Institutions, and the Politics of Schools in Postwar Britain and Germany

This book explores the politics of continuity and change in postwar schooling in Britain and the Federal Republic Germany, contributing to understanding of education's place in the welfare state and the relationship between material and ideational factors.

Format: Hardback
Length: 372 pages
Publication date: 17 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book delves into a highly debated topic in postwar Western Europe: the organization of primary and secondary education within state education systems. By exploring the politics of continuity and change in postwar schooling in Britain and the Federal Republic of Germany, Gregory Baldi aims to contribute to a broader understanding of education's role in the welfare state, the development of social institutions, and the interplay between material and ideational factors in influencing political outcomes over time.

The book begins by providing an overview of the educational systems in both countries, highlighting their similarities and differences. It then delves into the historical context of postwar schooling, examining the social, political, and economic factors that shaped the educational policies of the two nations. Baldi argues that the organization of primary and secondary education played a crucial role in shaping the social and economic outcomes of postwar Europe. He explores how different educational policies, such as the introduction of comprehensive schools in Britain and the emphasis on vocational training in Germany, impacted the social mobility of individuals and the development of the labor market.

Baldi also examines the role of education in promoting social cohesion and national identity. He argues that education can be used as a tool to promote social inclusion and reduce social inequality, but that it can also be used to reinforce existing divisions and tensions. For example, he discusses how educational policies in Germany aimed at promoting national unity and assimilation were often met with resistance from minority groups, leading to tensions and conflicts.

The book also explores the relationship between education and political institutions. Baldi argues that education is not just a matter of individual choice or social policy, but is also deeply intertwined with the political system. He examines how political actors, such as politicians, policymakers, and educators, use education to promote their own interests and shape public opinion. For example, he discusses how political parties in Britain used education to promote their own ideologies and to appeal to different social groups.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the organization of primary and secondary education in postwar Western Europe. By exploring the politics of continuity and change, Baldi contributes to a broader understanding of education's role in the welfare state, the development of social institutions, and the relationship between material and ideational factors in shaping political outcomes over time. The book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and educators interested in education, social policy, and the history of postwar Europe.

Weight: 637g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030981556
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022