War in the Classroom: Democracy and Education in Times of Conflict (2026)

When war enters the classroom, democratic education is put to the test. This book shows why education cannot remain untouched by war and why ignoring its impact poses a grave risk to liberal democracies.. The book explores how war shapes schools, teaching, and democratic education. Drawing on case studies, historical analyses, and philosophical reflection, it reveals how war places immense pressure on teachers and students alike and changes the very conditions of democratic education. How should educators teach about the horrors of war? What image of the soldier should they convey? And how may they stay true to the aims of democratic education in times of war? Both a warning and a guide, War in the Classroom argues that democratic education must resist becoming an instrument of war while confronting its realities. A timely contribution for educators, researchers, and anyone concerned with democracy in times of conflict.