Philosophy of Reconstructionism

The Philosophy of Reconstructionism is closely associated with Critical Theory, which explores social and political inequality as a tool of education. As a philosophy, Reconstructionism actively seeks to use education to more equitably restructure society, socially and economically. The means and end-goal of restructuring society are not readily or consistently definable.

Theodore Brameld (1904-1987) is credited with the Philosophy of Reconstructionism in education. Born in Wisconsin, he was an active proponent of communism for the entirety of his career. Included in his prolific body of writing are subtle techniques teachers can use to convince students that collectivism (communism) is the optimal system of government.

The definition of equitable is vague and subjective. And what and how to reconstruct society can itself bring a substantive debate with potential for unforeseen consequences. Nonetheless, the merits of The Philosophy of Reconstructionism are worth discussion. A healthy society can only benefit from open and continual reflection of institutional and social structures.