Originally published in 1936, and with more than a slightly tongue-in-cheek tone at times, the author of this book declares that Scotland is not educated but merely learned. This book does not deal with education in its narrowest sense: it ranges from the Kirk to Haggis, Tartans and Burns, Whisky and repressed sex in its discussion, proclaiming Calvinism as the root of most of Scotland’s evils. Honest and at times provocative, this volume does give direct access to the emotional roots of Neill’s feelings about Scottish education.
1. Introduction 2. The Subject 3. Scots Learning 4. Creation and Possession 5. The Kirk and Education 6. Education and Sex 7. Scots Humour and Education 8. Edinburgh and St. Andrews 9. The Rural School 10. The Scots Who Fled 11. Psychology in Scotland 12. Scotland and the English Language 13. Health, Manners and Discipline 14. The Future 15. Book Review.
Biography
A. S. Neill founded Summerhill School, Suffolk, U.K and was a leading figure in the 20th Century movement for progressive, child-centred education.
‘This volume is particularly interesting in relation to Neill’s political, cultural and psychological perspectives on Scottish life and their relevance to his educational views.’ Walter Humes, Scottish Educational Review
