FOR USE IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS REVISED AND REWRITTEN BY ROSCOE LEWIS ASHLEY AUTHOR OF "THE AMERICAN FEDERAL STATE" In most secondary schools the time devoted to the study of American government is so limited that especial care is necessary in selecting the topics to be considered and the methods to be used. The chief aim in studying our governments is unquestionably the preparation of our high school students for the proper exercise of their duties and privileges as American citizens. In the opinion of the author, this preparation must include at least three things. First of all, the pupils must gain an adequate knowledge of the structure and functions of our system of government. In the second place, they should be to some extent familiar with the affairs of to-day which are connected with the work of government, in order that our political system may become real, and not be a lifeless organization to be studied chiefly in books. Last, but perhaps most important from the standpoint of life as well as the school, some training must be given which will enable the pupils to look upon both sides of public questions, to weigh arguments, and to judge for themselves whether reasons given for a particular policy may be satisfactory. This training of the judgment in connection with practical subjects must not lead the pupils to imagine that they are solving or can solve the problems of government, but should enable them to learn and understand the truth about each one which they consider. In rewriting the book the author has placed much more emphasis upon the activities of government than in the earlier work. This has made it necessary to change the arrangement of many topics and chapters, as activities have been grouped according to their relations with one another rather than connected with the governmental officials through whom a special phase of the work may be performed. It is hoped that the introduction of new material, the shifting of emphasis still further to the more practical features of our government's work, and the new special helps for students will make the text even more acceptable than the original American Government. The author acknowledges with great pleasure the many helpful suggestions made by teachers and friends. Corrections of errors will be received gladly from those who have occasion to use the volume. PASADENA, CALIFORNIA, |