Taboo Topics

Philosophical questions lead us to come to terms with our own belief systems, values and judgements.  We are bombarded with moral and political messages and images from the media, peers and family on a constant basis and cannot escape their impact on the way we view the world.  Whose right is it to shape children's beliefs?

The preference sometimes voiced by parents that their children not discuss issues like religion, sex and politics in school settings is usually based on two concerns: that positions on these issues will be seen by children as endorsed by the teacher and school, and that children who are encouraged in a classroom to question or think critically about their own or their family's religious, moral, or political beliefs, might end up abandoning those beliefs.

What then is the role of the teacher?  What is the purpose of a classroom?  What makes a good teacher?

A good teacher does not lecture.  A good teacher does not silence other voices or opinions.  A good teacher does not overlook the multiple perspectives on any one subject.  A good teacher provokes inquiry.  A good teacher engages minds.  A good teacher establishes democratic interaction.

Is the school as a social institution responsible for covering such "taboo" topics?  Is prohibiting their discussion a form of censorship or an infringement on any rights?  What do you think is the underlying reason for not wanting these topics broached outside of the household?  Are these issues important to discuss and why?

"We have, in fact, two kinds of morality side by side: one which we preach but do not practice, and another which we practice but seldom preach. " 

Bertrand Russell