'Well-written, accessible to students with no previous background in philosophy ...an excellent introduction.' - THES This introductory text, now in its third edition, is a classic in its field. It shows, first and foremost, the importance of philosophy of education in educational debate and as a preliminary to any practical activity such as teaching. Barrow and Woods discuss various aspects of education and their relative importance - the concept of knowledge in planning curricula, indoctrination and rationality, self-determination, needs, interests, learning by discovery, and the elements of creativity and culture in schooling. This edition contains a new preface and two completely new chapters on curriculum theory and research into teaching.