Epistemological Foundations of Liberal Education for Democratic Life

Abstract

This paper explores the epistemological justification of liberal education for all, and of foundations courses for teachers, set forth by Harry Broudy, the paramount voice in philosophy of education during the mid to late twentieth century. This justification, grounded in Michael Polanyi’s revolutionary theory of tacit knowing, reveals that such education and preparation, issuing in a capable and confident person, is entailed by commitment to equal opportunity and democratic life.

Keywords:

• Liberal education
• democratic education
• tacit knowing
• Harry Broudy
• Michael Polanyi
• Foster McMurray