Date of Defense

12-6-2000

Department

Comparative Religion

First Advisor

Dr. Brian Wilson

Second Advisor

Dr. Linda LeBlanc

Third Advisor

Robert McClelland

Abstract

Over the last century, the teaching of ethics in primary schools has changed greatly. The greatest influence upon public schools has been the shift in parents' attitudes towards teaching ethics in the school setting. Parents have progressively wanted to have more control over their child's ethical learning, thus becoming more critical of the teaching of ethics within public schools. This has led to greater input from parents. Christian ethics had long been the yardstick for ethical teachings, although in 1962 in the Engel v. Vitale case, school prayer was ruled unconstitutional, removing Christian views from the school setting. As a result of this, there has been a de-emphasis on teaching values since 1962. However, parents currently would like to return some of this control to the schools, which has caused additional problems. Thus it is up to the schools to find a compromise that will please parents' desire for ethical principles, yet also consider their individual rights.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Open Access

Download

Included in

Religion Commons

Share

COinS