Customer Reviews

Philosophy and Education: An Introduction in Christian Perspective

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Knight's work is strong in that it begins with the fundamentals of Christian education and builds outward as the reader's understanding broadens. He does not presuppose that the reader is already grounded in the basics of Christian educational philosophy, and structures his own educational system accordingly. The reader is taken through a classroom of understanding as Knight guides him through basic philosophy, various educational philosophies which have sprouted from these ideas, and finally their implications on Christian education. In doing so, Knight clearly builds upon his basic premises that life's goals are rooted in philosophical ideas and that there is a definite connection between philosophical goals and educational practice. It seems clear that if Knight's purpose in writing Philosophy and Education was "to survey those aspects of philosophy that are relevant to the educational profession and to highlight the relationship between philosophical starting points and educational outcomes," then he accomplished this purpose with grace and style.

Traditional educational philosophies are helpful to some degree, for instance Knight points out that postmodernists' interest in social issues is similar to those listed in the Bible (94). Though there are some truths expressed in various philosophies, they all fail in their understanding of the human condition (133). Knight is careful to distinguish the uniqueness of Christian education, which is a "redemptive act"-one that seeks to reconcile students to the image of God (198). Since teachers are "agents of reconciliation" (200), it is important that they have a personal relationship with Christ (207). Knight describes teaching as the "art of loving God's children" (209). This love for students and truth is what fuels the central philosophy of Christian education, which is based on God as Creator, the disparity between good and evil, the consequences of sin and humanity, God's revelation of Himself through the Bible, and knowledge of His loving kindness and mercy (241). The very essence of Christian education is that "life is meaningless outside of Christ" and educators are to guide students to the same conclusion (242). All students, regardless if they are a believer or nonbeliever, should be given an opportunity for a life in Christ. Although Knight states that Christian education is a "redemptive act" and teachers are "agents of reconciliation," pointing students to the Savior is not confined to Christian institutions. If given the opportunity, Christian teachers can use their student's negative life situations to talk about Christ. Knight puts the correct perspective of teaching: no matter where a believer teaches, the main objective is always the same-to be used as an instrument in drawing people to Christ.

Having taken the course "Philosophy of Education" and having to use many textbooks, one of which was "Philosophy and Education: An Introduction in Christian Perspective" by George R. Knight, I was given a broad perspective of what the philosophies of education are. This book centers on the philosophy that is held by most major monotheistic religions and the author does not presuppose that the reader is already grounded in the basics of Christian educational philosophy because the book is intended for use in the Christian environment. I recommend this book to those that want to have a broader perspective in educational philosophy.

I purchased this book for a class and was very impressed by the thorough and interesting way the material was presented. Many philosophical views are considered and brought to light from a Christian perspective as well. It is a great resource tool for me to use in the future.

Wow! I always thought philosophy to be boring however, this book made the subject matter clear and very comprehensible. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and expanding my knowledge. If you have always had an adverse reaction to philosophy then this is the book for you. Happy reading!

this book wes well recieved,,,it hardly had any wear or tear just a few highlighting on some pages, this book really helped me out with my class, thanks!!

I bought this book for a graduate-level education course. It is well-organized and well-written. It makes for an excellent resource for anyone citing educational philosophers or even anyone interested in the different philosophical schools of thought pertaining to education.

This is a great book even for non-christian. It gives a well-rounded introduction to how the world is viewed by non-christian from a christian standpoint and how one should recognize those non-christian philosophies and apply a christian worldview to those non-christian approaches. Of course, some of the information on the philosophy of education could be useful to all even non-christian as it is general enough for one to merely receive it as a worthwhile information.

A very easy read for a textbook. Knight covers all the major philosophical camps in adequate detail for the novice philosophy student. The text ties each major philosophy to its impact on education. Very Christ centered commentary is included, which I found very enjoyable. A must for Christian educators.

Fast easy service. Book arrived on time in order to use. New at a low price. No complaints.