Not all change is growth. It’s easy enough to see that people change, young people most of all. What is it that distinguishes change we call growth from change that is merely difference? I can change my job, my hair, and my home, but these changes are only differences. In contrast, growth is the upward unfolding of natural … Continue reading What Is Moral Growth?
The Badly-Behaved Student Section (Moral Autonomy, Part 1 of 3)
Our student section at the last basketball game had gotten a little out of hand, so I was asked to supervise the next few games to keep our kids in check. If you’ve ever had that assignment, you know it’s not an easy one. The students have a hard time distinguishing between cheering the home … Continue reading The Badly-Behaved Student Section (Moral Autonomy, Part 1 of 3)
Gardeners, not Blacksmiths
Teaching is gardening, at least in many respects. In the garden we work with natural growth patterns, not against them. We prepare the most hospitable plot of ground we can and fight our battles of attrition against invading weeds and pests. We know the success of our labor depends on forces beyond our control. Sun and rain, love and … Continue reading Gardeners, not Blacksmiths
Supporting Moral Growth During Adolescence 