September 3rd, 2010 
Admin We Make The Road by Walking: Conversations on Education and Social Change
This dialogue between two of the most prominent thinkers on social change in the twentieth century was certainly a meeting of giants. Throughout their highly personal conversations recorded here, Horton and Freire discuss the nature of social change and empowerment and their individual literacy campaigns. The ideas of these men developed through two very different channels: Horton’s, from the Highlander Center, a small, independent residential education center situated outside the formal schooling system and the state; Freire’s, from within university and state-sponsored programs.
Myles Horton, who died in January 1990, was a major figure in the civil rights movement and founder of the Highlander Folk School, later the highlander Research and Education Center. Paulo Freire, author of Pedagogy of the Oppressed, established the Popular Culture Movement in Recife, Brazil’s poorest region, and later was named head of the New National Literacy Campaign until a military coup forced his exile from Brazil. He has been active in educational development programs worldwide.
For both men, real liberation is achieved through popular participation. The themes they discuss illuminate problems faced by educators and activists around the world who are concerned with linking participatory education to the practice of liberation and social change. How could two men, working in such different social spaces and times, arrive at similar ideas and methods? These conversations answer that question in rich detail and engaging anecdotes, and show that, underlying the philosophy of both, is the idea that theory emanates from practice and that knowledge grows from and is a reflection of social experience.
Rating: (out of 6 reviews)
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Review by for We Make The Road by Walking: Conversations on Education and Social Change
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I agree with the last reader that this is one of the best books I have ever read. Horton (may he rest in peace) and Freire have been on the front lines of using education for social progress and change. They discuss their philosophies and principles about education, illustrated by powerful stories of their work over the years, in an informal, conversational style. It has made me totally rethink the way I approach teaching adult ESL students.
Review by lide0004@tc.umn.edu for We Make The Road by Walking: Conversations on Education and Social Change
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There is no better book that combines education and social change than “We Make the Road By Walking”. The dialog format truly lets the reader feel as though you are sitting next to Freire and Horton in a rocking chair at Highlander. This book is nothing short of a guide for all of us to shape the world we live in.
Review by H for We Make The Road by Walking: Conversations on Education and Social Change
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Just wanted to say ditto to the previous reviewers. Highly readable, engaging dialogue between the two great minds, a great introduction to their lives and thought. I give this book to friends as a gift probably half a dozen times a year it is that good. Trust me. Buy it. Read it. Go out and transform this world into one less ugly.
Review by Leonard H. Beck for We Make The Road by Walking: Conversations on Education and Social Change
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Exposes the challenges to changing mind set (traditions), and presents a successful approach to change (encouraging thinking). Practical questions the people can identify with are KEY!
Review by captain hof for We Make The Road by Walking: Conversations on Education and Social Change
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Scientists, educators, community activist – anyone with a penchant for critical thought and understanding should start with this book. Myles Horton was an unheralded contributor to the Civil Rights Movement and adult education. Paulo Friere truly understands learning. This book changed my life and will change yours!