Berkowitz, M. W. (2022). PRIMED for character education: Six design principles for school improvement. EUNSA. 355 pp.

Abstract

To be, or not to be, that is the question. As it is in character education as well. In his pedagogical research, Marvin Berkowitz reduces the problem he confronts to its most basic components, as Shakespeare already did in the field of literature, and, in so doing, uncovers the metaphysical scope of his professional endeavour. In the case of PRIMED for character education, this undertaking is based on teaching and, as noted above, appeals to what is most radical, which is “how to be” and “how to live” (p. 4). Throughout this work, this is precisely a matter of attaining an effective practice to achieve “the flourishing of human goodness in schools” (p. 4), which is what gives most meaning to people’s life and being. This goodness is considered in the spirit of his book as “the inclination and capacity to make the world a more just and compassionate place for everyone and for that to be central to one’s sense of self” (p. 16). The purpose of this publication, expressed in more detail, is set out straightforwardly: “how we can build a better world through understanding, committing to, and acting upon what is most effective in nurturing the flourishing of human goodness, especially in kids” (p. 3). Through guidelines and specific examples largely implemented by notable or pioneering educators, Berkowitz clarifies the most appropriate way to achieve this objective of goodness, which must emanate from the “inner core, in other words, our character” (p. 4).