Critical Thinking in Moral Development: Philosophy, Psychology, Education, and Assessment (Moral Development and Citizenship Education #25)

This book is for anyone interested in these topics, whether they are veterans or relative newcomers to the field because the editors have assembled a stellar group of seventeen international contributors. There are four sections devoted, respectively, to philosophical perspectives, developmental psychology, educational practices, and assessment. Each section consists of three initial chapters followed by a commentary that highlights notable themes and gives guidance for further inquiry.

Along with the Introduction and Epilogue contributed by the editors, Daniel Fasko and Frank Fair, the chapters develop themes such as the role of the ideas of Aristotle and Kant in shaping our moral development and educational practices. Here readers will encounter informative discussions of, among other things, “The 4Es of Virtuous Purpose,” “The Rational Construction of Morality,” and “Philosophy Goes to High School.” Readers are also led to consider “Measures of Moral Identity,” “The EQUIP Program,” and “Assessing Value Clarity and Moral Blueprints.”

The diversity of expertise and the international vantage points of the contributors make this book an informative overview for the expert and a useful introduction for the beginning student concerning the issues involved.

Contributors are: Jennifer Baker, Marvin W Berkowitz, M. Neil Browne, Michael W. Creane, Juan P. Dabdoub, Frank Fair, Daniel Fasko, Jr., John C. Gibbs, David Kaspar, Ján Knapík, Martina Kosturková, Shane McLoughlin, Chad Miller, Benjamin Mitchell-Yellin, David Moshman, G. Felicitas Munzel, Renee B. Patrick, Timothy S. Reilly and Di You.