We need to teach the 2nd Amendment in School
A great many philosophers and educators have discussed the purpose of schooling. In the United States, educational philosophers like John Dewey are often cited. Dewey might have said that school is about teaching students how to live “pragmatically” in our current circumstance. Dewey encouraged teachers to engage the curiosity in students and to teach critical thinking skills — including the ability to challenge authority.
More recently, another educational philosopher built on Dewey’s ideas and expanded them to specifically address what he saw as the objectives of schooling. Mortimore Adler would argue that the purpose of schools include the development of good citizens.
No matter what one’s personal philosophy might be related to the purposes of schooling it seems most would agree that teaching of the Constitution is expected to be in the curriculum of schools in the United States.
Here, I argue for the full and complete teaching of the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution.
In light of the recent student lead protests, there have been voices of those who feel “politics should be kept out of school” and that schools should “remain neutral”. There may be a lot to discuss regarding those stances. And, what I am suggesting here is teaching our Constitution — a seemingly core part of our history. Since the Second Amendment has been a ubiquitous part of current events for about as long as I can remember, it seems very relevant to know and understand it.
Certainly, both Dewey and Adler would agree. And, since they both thought it was important to teach students to think critically, they would likely support the approach of teaching it from a neutral position. For instance, teach literally what is says and help students understand it on its face. Then, as students encountered rhetoric in the media and out in the world, they can decide for themselves about whether or not their Second Amendment rights are being infringed upon.
I admit, I had to study a bit myself. I remember distinctly learning about the First Amendment in school. But, I don’t remember learning much about the Second — maybe that was a political decision. Regardless, on my quick study and with the help of an old friend who is now a respected lawyer, I found quite a few websites, geared toward children, that break down the facts.
A Beginner’s Guide to the Second Amendment
· Adopted in 1791
· It is only one sentence long, here is what it says, “A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”
· A well-regulated militia meant men of a certain age who were trained — (not just a bunch of guys with guns).
· To bear arms means to carry a weapon. But, notice that the Second Amendment does not indicate what kinds of guns or weapons are included. The government can regulate what kinds of weapons citizens can own.
· The right to bear arms is considered a god given right. The Second Amendment is actually considered just to be a reminder to the government that they should not stop people from having this right. That is why it says [it] “shall not be infringed”
So, let us honor Dewey and prepare students to live in today’s society. And, let’s honor Adler and prepare them to be good citizens. The purpose of schooling very clearly includes teaching about our history and our laws and supporting and encouraging critical thinking skills. This is what the best of public education in the United States will offer. If that model does not fit with one’s values, alternate types of schools are available. But, I hope that our public schools do not avoid these important topics to appease those who are experiencing discomfort. Because, in my estimation that is a much more politically motivated decision than teaching with the aim of preparing well-informed citizens.
Note: The Constition Center in Philadelphia published both a middle school and high school lesson on the Second Amendment here.