"Progressive educators have always been better at critique than at possibility. This book promises not to ignore critique, but to favor possibility. It is most rare and greatly welcomed."

Richard Quantz, Miami University

"The editor argues that in a material world, depicted by consumerism, spiritual nihilism and conspicuous consumption, there is need to offer a new vision and direction in education that would promote a more harmonious, holistic values-oriented schooling that transforms persons into moral beings, who care for others.... In terms of innovative ideas and approaches to pedagogy and theorizing about schooling, this volume is at the top of pedagogical discourses and thinking."

Joseph Zajda, Australian Catholic University (Melbourne Campus)

Education and Hope in Troubled Times brings together a group of the best and most creative educational thinkers to reflect on the purpose and future of public education. These original essays by leading social and educational commentators in North America attempt to articulate a new vision for education, especially public education, and begin to set an alternative direction. This is a time of crisis, but also of renewed possibility-one that offers the opportunity to radically reconsider what is the meaning of education for a generation that will bear the brunt of grappling with the extraordinary dangers and challenges we confront today. At its core this volume questions what will it mean to be an educated human being in the 21^st century compelled to confront and address so much that threatens the very basis of a decent and hopeful human existence. Carrying forward a project of redefining and reshaping public discourse on education in the U.S., it is a critical catalyst and focus for re-thinking public policy on education.

H. Svi Shapiro is Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Cultural Foundations, University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Author or editor of a number of books on education and has also published more than 70 articles in national and international journals and writes on education matters for the national magazine, Tikkun. His professional interests include critical and liberatory pedagogies; the moral and spiritual dimensions of education; education and social policy as these relate to social justice, human rights and democracy; global social change and peace education; and qualitative forms of educational inquiry. He is a member of the advisory board of the Network of Spiritual Progressives, a member of the steering committee of Triangle Tikkun, has been actively engaged in interfaith efforts, and has a special interest in the Israel-Palestine conflict.