Not in Front of the Children: Children and the Heterogeneity of Morals

Abstract

There is an argument about moral education in educational circles which goes like this: in order to avoid indoctrination children should not be taught any definite moral values. In exposing the child to definite moral judgements and beliefs, the impression is given that something is settled which in fact is a matter of opinion. There is a great variety of moral opinions on most questions. One moral opinion is just as valid as any other. Therefore respect for the child demands that we inform him of the variety, allowing him to decide between the moral views when he is old enough to do so.