A critical perspective on education through the concept of childhood

The main topic discussed in the sociology of childhood is whether childhood is a universal and ideal construct, or a construct that is based on changing cultural and historic trends, which represent many different variations of childhood. Another debate relating to this issue is one which questions whether children are actually active-creative subjects, or just objects in the face of structural inequalities that continue to maintain their status of dependendency. The purpose of this study is to bring a critical perspective to educational understanding and practices. This paper will explore the roots of childhood from a sociological point of view. Furthermore, it will take an interdisciplinary approach, studying the topic through the lense of sociology and educational studies in order to ascertain a clearer picture with regard to the concept of 'childhood.' (C) 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.