Deliberative democratic decision making, universal values, and cultural pluralism: A proposed contribution to the prevention of violent extremism through education

Abstract

Fostering cohesion and acceptance amidst a plurality of cultures and values is a clear context for quality education and also for PVE. This article proposes that deliberative democratic decision making (DDD) can result in agreements on (quasi-universal) values that accommodate both the claims of universal values – including human rights – and cultural pluralism and particularism. The article suggests that any agreed upon values framework itself becomes generative of curriculum and teaching and learning processes that will foster quality education, with conditions that also contribute to the prevention of violent extremism. An explicit treatment of values across the whole school as a subject of inquiry and agreement by all members of the school community can contribute to a healthy school environment and praxis for learners that serve the aims of PVE. Following an exploration of these arguments, the article presents concrete strategies for critical values clarification within the schooling system that recognize how universality and pluralism co-exist.