Orestes Brownson challenged Horace Mann's interpretation of the state's role in protecting social and economic harmony via education. He believed in the right and duty of the local school district to determine "the selection of teachers, the choice of studies and of books . . . all that pertains to the methods of teaching and the matters to be taught or learned . . ." How are both Mann's and Brownson's arguments being employed today in education and over what kinds of issues? How can understanding the past help us understand and act in the present? Where do you stand on federal versus state versus local control of schools?

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The Answer is Both Mann's and Brownson's arguments are still being employed today in education, particularly in debates over curriculum, teacher selection, and educational standards. Mann's emphasis on the state's role in protecting social and economic harmony through education can be seen in the implementation of standardized testing, common core standards, and federal funding for education. On the other hand, Brownson's belief in the right and duty of the local school district to determine these aspects of education is reflected in the push for local control over curriculum, school choice initiatives, and the selection of teachers.

Understanding the past can help us understand and act in the present by providing context for current debates and policies in education. By examining the historical arguments of Mann and Brownson, we can better understand the tensions between federal, state, and local control of schools and the implications for educational equity and quality.

As for my stance on federal versus state versus local control of schools, I believe that a balance is necessary. While federal oversight can ensure equity and accountability, state and local control allows for flexibility and responsiveness to the unique needs of communities. Ultimately, the best approach is likely a combination of all three levels of control, with clear guidelines and support from the federal government, autonomy for states to tailor education to their specific needs, and local input and decision-making to ensure that schools reflect the values and priorities of their communities.

Orestes Brownson Challenged Horace Mann's Interpretation of the State's Role