New Books in Critical Theory

Peter Mandler, "The Crisis of the Meritocracy: Britain's Transition to Mass Education Since the Second World War" (Oxford UP, 2020)

Jan 6, 2025

Peter Mandler, a Professor of Modern Cultural History at the University of Cambridge, delves into the evolution of Britain's education system post-World War II. He examines the tug-of-war between meritocracy and democracy, particularly through the lens of the Butler Act of 1944 and the rise of comprehensive schools. Mandler critically analyzes how public demand reshaped higher education, revealing the ongoing struggle against social inequality. He also reflects on the grassroots impact of universal secondary education on community identity and experience.

40:25

Episode guests

Peter Mandler

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

The historical evolution of Britain's education system reveals a complex tension between meritocracy's exclusivity and the democratic demand for equitable access post-World War II.

Despite advancements in educational access, systemic social inequalities persist, indicating that education alone cannot resolve deeper societal barriers to equality and mobility.

Deep dives

The Crisis of Meritocracy and Democratic Ideals

The discussion highlights the historical evolution of education in Britain, particularly focusing on the tension between meritocracy and democracy. Meritocracy operated on the premise that only a select few could benefit from advanced education, essentially narrowing access based on perceived intelligence or effort. However, post-World War II, there emerged a strong wave advocating for democratic ideals in education, emphasizing the need for equitable access for all citizens. This struggle between the two perspectives continues to influence the educational landscape, with ongoing debates about how to best serve varied learning needs in a growing population.

Intro

4min

Meritocracy vs. Democracy in Post-War Education

16min

The Evolution of Higher Education in Post-War Britain

4min

Shifts in Educational Demand and Societal Narratives

6min

Education and Social Inequality

7min

Exploring the Impact of Universal Secondary Education on Identity and Community

2min

How did public demand shape education in the 20th century? In The Crisis of the Meritocracy: Britain’s Transition to Mass Education since the Second World War (Oxford UP, 2020), Peter Mandler, Professor of Modern Cultural History at the University of Cambridge, charts the history of schools, colleges, and universities. The book charts the tension between demands for democracy and the defence of meritocracy within both elite and public discourses, showing how this tension plays out in Britain’s complex and fragmented education system. Offering an alternative vision to the popular memory and perception of education, a note of caution about the power of education to cure social inequalities, and a celebration of public demand for high quality education for all, the book is essential reading across the humanities, social sciences, and for anyone interested in understanding education in contemporary society.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/critical-theory