The Abandonment of Social Studies?

Abstract

This paper addresses the question of whether the social studies should be abandoned. The work of Kieran Egan is examined in light of his claims about the nature of social studies and the importance of storytelling as well as of binary opposites. An alternative way of uncovering the epistemological basis of thinking is presented that the author suggests saves both the social studies and the intent of Egan's analysis of social studies. The implications for an alternative way of knowing are examined for educators at all levels of formal education.