Wow! eBook
Promises of Freedom: Citizenship, Belonging and Lifelong Learning
Author(s): R.H. Fryer (Author), Bob Fryer (Author)
- Publisher: National Institute of Adult Continuing Education
- Publication Date: 31 Dec. 2009
- Language: English
- Print length: 288 pages
- ISBN-10: 1862014426
- ISBN-13: 9781862014428
Book Description
This highly topical book examines the promises – for social improvement, a better life, and greater freedom – that are deeply inscribed in enriched citizenship: a deep sense of belonging, a full and open expression of people’s identities, and an extensive engagement in lifelong learning across the lifespan. To what extent are these promises likely to be fulfilled and what barriers stand in the way of their fulfillment? To address these questions, author R.H. Fryer reviews a wide range of scholarly literature, policy documents, and empirical data relating to citizenship, belonging, and lifelong learning. At a time when politicians and policy makers in the UK are debating the merits and demerits of the idea of the ‘Big Society,’ Promises of Freedom provides a thorough introduction to the issues of citizenship, belonging, and identity, and to the role of the State in relation to them, which lie at the very heart of the debate. The book surveys a wide range of literature from the US and Europe. It offers extensive consideration of the questions raised by markedly increased social diversity and multiculturalism, and it examines the deep implications of social and economic change, including globalization and the growth of ‘risk society.’ Promises of Freedom sets out a radical framework of principles that should underline lifelong learning practice in support of citizenship and belonging.
Editorial Reviews
Review
I am happy to endorse and recommend this book which is very much written in the tradition that Bernard Crick and I set out. In seeking to set out and extend the case for an inclusive, humanistic and optimistic vision of each of the three issues the text concludes with an agenda for action: a set of principles which need to underpin and guide lifelong learning. This will ensure the future development of both citizenship and belonging in a democratic and pluralistic society, against a modern background of the threats of globalisation, risk and increasing insecurity. –Rt Hon David Blunkett MP
Promises of Freedom is an original and stimulating reflection on the meanings of citizenship and belonging in relation to the realities of lifelong learning. It will be of great value to both practitioners and academics. –Professor John Annette, Pro Vice Master for Lifelong Learning and Engagement and Professor of Citizenship and Lifelong Learning, Birkbeck, University of London
About the Author
Professor R.H. (Bob) Fryer CBE is Chair of the Campaign for Learning UK and is a Board member of NIACE. Bob was formerly Chief Learning Advisor to the Department of Health and National Director for Widening Participation in Learning. He was the founding Chief Executive and Vice Chancellor Designate of NHSU. He was Assistant Vice Chancellor at the University of Southampton, was Principal of the Northern College for Residential Adult Education for 15 years and chaired the UK government s National Advisory Group for Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning. Bob was awarded a CBE for services to Community Education in 1999.
