Curriculum for Justice and Harmony

Barton and Ho present a global vision of social and civic education, one that reorients the field towards justice and harmony. Drawing from diverse philosophical and cultural traditions, as well as empirical research, they introduce curriculum principles designed to motivate and inform students' thoughtful and compassionate deliberation of public issues.

Curriculum for Justice and Harmony argues that the curriculum must prepare young people to take action on issues of justice and harmony—societal ideals that are central to all communities. Effective action depends on deliberation characterised by emotional commitment, collaborative problem-solving, and engagement with diverse perspectives and forms of expression.

Deliberation for public action also requires knowledge—of people's lives and experiences, their insights into social issues, and strategies for advancing justice and harmony. These curriculum principles are illustrated through case studies of public housing, food insecurity, climate change, gender bias, public health, exploitation of domestic workers, incarceration of racialised minorities, and the impact of development and environmental change on Indigenous communities, along with other pressing global concerns.

For additional resources and related information, please visit the authors' website, www.justiceandharmony.com.