The Liberal Arts Tradition - by Bruce A Kimball (Paperback)

About the Book

Based upon the author's twenty-five years of experience leading seminars concerning the history of liberal education, this collection presents a uniquely comprehensive and salient set of documents, ranging from Plato to Martha Nussbaum, while incorporating the neglected portra...

Book Synopsis

Ranging from Plato in antiquity to Martha Nussbaum in the present era, the authors of the seventy readings included in The Liberal Arts Tradition present significant and exemplary views addressing liberal arts education over the course of its history, particularly in the United States. Most of the documents are newly translated or no longer available in print. Arranged chronologically, each selection is accompanied by an informative introduction and extensive explanatory notes discussing its place within the liberal arts tradition. Based upon the author's twenty-five years of experience leading seminars concerning the history of liberal education, this collection presents a uniquely comprehensive and salient set of documents, while incorporating the neglected portrayal and discussion of women within the history of the liberal arts.

Review Quotes

"Indispensable both for its historical depth and its broad range of diverse views on the history - and the future - of liberal education." --Herman Sinaiko, professor in the humanities, University of Chicago

"Essential reading for anyone interested in clarifying the notion of liberal education in the modern university." --Phillip Sloan, professor of liberal studies, University of Notre Dame

"Kimball knows this territory exceedingly well and has succeeded here in bringing together a rich collection of sources, thoughtfully selected and interestingly juxtaposed. A timely and most valuable contribution." --Francis C. Oakley, president emeritus, Williams College

"Absolutely indispensable both to the study and the revival of liberal education. There is nothing like it presently available." --Eva Brann, St. John's College, Annapolis

About the Author

Bruce A. Kimball is a historian of education and a professor in the School of Educational Policy and Leadership at Ohio State University. A noted authority on the history of liberal arts education, he has also published extensively on the history of the professions and professional education in the United States.