Gutek Ch. 7

In chapter 7, Gutek stresses the significance of language in the American identity. He states that “A person’s national identity is often shaped by hearing and speaking the same language; by learning to respect the same national symbols; by celebrating commemorative events that generate a feeling of patriotism; by being member of the same religion; and by being acculturated in the same culture.” (118) He highlights language as the most important saying that a person’s language can determine their national identity. I agree simply because our society quickly recognizes those who fail to speak or understand English as outsiders. Language is important and although they may not be seen as “American” by solely learning the language, it will help them live more freely in our country.
Gutek also highlights religion as important in many different countries; this holds true in areas such as the Middle East. However, America sees religion through a broader lens for there are many different religions that make up the “American religion. “ There may be a higher number of some than others, but overall, a person is not looked at as an outsider because of their religious beliefs. There are many different factors that determine how someone is viewed in American because of the diverse population and the diverse lifestyles our citizens posses.

Chapter 9

Gutek discusses the evolution of American education since the Colonial period in American Education in a Global Society. While focusing on the importance of language, such as classical, Latin-scientific, modern language, and English, Gutek explores the presence of the inclusive and complete education in the United States. He comments that “the American high school became a comprehensive institution that aimed at social integration while providing some curricular differentiation (171)”. This sentence reflects the summary of what he has discussed in a way that the American education incorporates all cultural diversity, academic achievements, and extracurricular activities.
Moreover, when I was reading the phrase “concerted efforts were made to bring equality of educational opportunity,” I thought of my high school experiences at Andrews. At Andrews, we had a club that promotes equal opportunities for everyone, and people volunteer to tutor students who need help around the community. After I read this chapter, I realized the significant development and of the American education and its efforts to lead the outcome.

Gutek Ch. 7- Language

Gutek discusses the importance language plays in the creation of national identity. He states that a common language unites people and helps create a sense of identity in terms of how we relate to others. When there are multiple languages in a nation, it becomes harder to create that sense of national identity (ie. India). In these situations, there are large political implications because of opposing ideas of which language should be taught. He talks about how as the world becomes more interconnected, the language issues we face today will inevitably become more complex. Lastly, he points out the relationship between how strong a persons language skills are to their opportunities to employment and economic success. Language is something that is highly valued in all cultures and is perhaps the strongest tool to creating national identity.

Because I had two working parents growing up, they were never able to take the time to teach me Hindi. I can understand to a certain degree, but my written/speaking skills are not what they should be considering I am a first generation Indian American. Because of my lack of language skills, when I go back to India I feel a little out of place and can't connect to people on the level I wish I could. This shows how important language is in creating an understanding between people. Because I cannot effectively communicate with even some of my own family members, it disconnects me from my own culture and heritage, which only further helps support Guteks point. 

Gutek Chapter 7 and 9

Gutek discusses how religion in schools can create a sense of national identity. He delves into the historical importance of the church in countries like Italy and Spain and the importance of Judaism in Israel.  When the government sponsors a religion and teaches it in school, it can have a profound impact on national identity.  It, like language and cultural artifacts, can unite a country by creating a bond between citizens and state.  In America and Western Europe, church and state are separate and religion does not create the same national identity.  This is especially true when there is not a recognized national religion.

As a Jew, I attended a Catholic high school, where religion is a strong part of the school.  We had a go to church twice a week, take four years of Christian doctrine and some classes were taught by monks.  After experiences this, I feel that Gutek is correct in saying that religion does not create a sense of national identity in school.  Religion is reserved for private schools instead of public schools.  Because of this, most students do not have any religion in school and do not feel that religion is a part of having a strong national identity. 

Gutek Chapter 7 to p. 122 and 9

In American Education in a Global Society, Gutek disscusses the development and evolution of high schools in the United States. The National Education Association's Committee of Ten decided that a high school education should be comprised of four subjects: classical, Latin-scientific, modern language, and English. At first, high school served as a secondary education that would come after primary school and before college. As the education system evolved, high school adapted to be for students between ages 14 and 18.
Originally, I thought that the education system in the United States grew from primary school to middle school followed by high school. I was not aware until I read this passage that originally there were six-year high schools without junior high or middle schools. Recently, I realized that not all public education systems throughout the country were like mine. I met a girl who would have gone to a six-year junior/senior high school if she was one year ahead in school. In her town, they just recently built a four-year middle school that she attended.

Gutek Chapter 9

As a Navajo, I have always felt very strongly about the missionary education that my great-grandfathers endured. Our traditional Navajo family name was lost forever as we were forced to choose a more "American" surname at the Indian Boarding School. Subsequently my great- great- grandfather chose the name Ben, not knowing it is usually a first name. This form of assimilation education can be seen today in conquered nations.

Even in the days of the fight against communism, the communist schools were seen as inferior in light of democracy. Today there has been talk to educate the Afgani children with a western education. Often much of a culture can be lost in an effort to civilize and educate.

Language in Nationalism