ABSTRACT
This chapter explains a model which posits the contradictory character of capitalist and democratic imperatives within countries like the United States. Although this work depends primarily upon concepts, historical occurrences, and examples from the society within which the present writer lives, the model is intended to be relevant to other advanced, late capitalist societies, which are also characterized by constitutional restraints, broad suffrage, traditions of popular/mass involvement in public life, etc. This explanatory model is offered as preferable to liberal ones which do not take the reality of capitalism’s awesome power seriously enough, and have over-emphasized the autonomy, and good intentions, of the central government. Special emphasis is placed upon the consequences which the competing, or conflicting imperative model has for schooling-education. An educational system can be egalitarian and liberating only when it prepares youth for fully democratic participation in social life and an equal claim to the fruits of economic activity.
