ABSTRACT
The similarities and diversity in the democratic ideals and arguments are spelled out in order to reveal the main features and tensions of the wartime reform. Despite all the differences, a common feature of the figures’ democratic ideals is the acceptance of the role of the state in securing equality of educational opportunity. This helps explain why there was a consensus across political party lines in favour of educational reform, which was crucial to the passage of the 1944 Education Act. This chapter attempts to draw some historical lessons and to bring forth some important implications for the advancement of a democratic educational system and, above all, a democratic society in England and internationally. Beyond doubt, an obvious consequence of all the debates is that liberal democracy, especially protective democracy, prevailed over social democracy in the 1944 Education Act.
