Knowledge, culture and the curriculum in Britain, 1944 to the present

The school curriculum is a vital battlefield on which versions of the ‘good society’ are fought over. For much past five decades, educational left has been losing that battle. Optimistic calls for to support ‘common culture’ fragmented in face economic, social and cultural changes. This article charts debates about culture, focusing work sociologist education Michael Young, who spent his academic life at IOE (Institute Education), UCL’s Faculty Education Society (University College London, UK). It surveys arguments New Left 1960s, turn towards knowledge control neo-Marxism 1970s, failed modernisations 1990s influence postmodern culture subjects. Finally, it assesses recent moves reassert importance over skills processes. crisis reflective wider crises British society, and, suggested, Young offers guide what comes next.