Public matters

The nation-state is responsible for ensuring the well-being of its citizens. Education has an important role to play in improving civic and social participation and fostering democratic citizenship. This chapter explores these issues through five lenses:Private vices, public benefits? – focuses on the growing income gap and rising levels of tax avoidance.The rule of the people – contrasts decreasing civic engagement in voting and the increasing importance of online news and media. The nation-state in a complex world – looks at the role of the nation in both a global and local world, with the examples of referendums for secession and the growing interconnectedness of cities. Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité – illustrates the important role governments can play in legislating for equality, using examples of immigrant minorities and gender quotas.Rurality in the 21st century – highlights two challenges facing rural areas: a changing economic landscape and population shifts.The democracy trends highlighted in this chapter are then linked to education, from early childhood education and care to lifelong learning. The chapter ends with a look at how using different versions of the future can help us better prepare for the unknown.