This manual provides an up-to-date and accessible introduction to the philosophy of education, focusing on the conceptual and normative questions raised by educational policies and practices. The key concepts examined include learning, teaching, indoctrination, knowledge, equality, intelligence, virtue, and rights. Clarifying these concepts is essential for educators to explain what they do and why. This conceptual analysis helps us address normative questions about what should or should not be done from an educational perspective.

Each chapter begins by exploring a fundamental concept, which is then connected to a theorized educational goal. The goals discussed include reasoning (i.e., critical thinking), knowledge, social justice, professional preparation, well-being, and political participation (citizenship). These educational goals are highly debated to examine their strengths and weaknesses. Each chapter concludes with a third section linking the fundamental concept and the educational goal discussed with a practical example.

The practical examples include religious schools, disparities in educational achievement, the educational impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, curriculum development, teaching moral education as a form of moral development, and civics education. These examples are drawn from critical social and political issues in education. Through critical engagement and building on existing literature, this book demonstrates how conceptual and normative issues in education have real-world consequences.

At the end of each chapter, pedagogical resources are provided to support educators and students. These include a chapter summary, a list of recommended and additional readings and online resources, as well as a list of discussion and research questions.

This book is an essential read for all undergraduate and graduate students studying the philosophy of education. It is also ideal for use in educational theory courses and will be of interest to those studying philosophy or education.