Pluralistmo axiológico: libertad de educación y elección educativa

Abstract

This paper discusses the relevance of 'axiologic pluralism' as one of the key elements within the educational system of fully developed societies, with particular attention to the Spanish case.The concept of 'educational axiologic pluralism' is defined and the problems for its implementation in a real educational institution are discussed. Then, the concept of 'private education' is analyzed as the formula used in Spain to implement this principle. The evolution of this concept in the democratic period according to the underlying ideologies or the interests of the institutions involved, the Church and the State, are analyzed in depth.Two basic and controversial rights which are difficult to implemet are involved in this process: 'academic freedom' and 'educational choice'.Thus, the evolution of both concepts, its various interpretations and the problems for their implementation are studied. As a conclusion, the paper includes some recommendations which might be of interest in order to secure these rights.