What do we as a society, and as parents in particular, owe to our
children? Each chapter in Taking Responsibility for Children offers
part of an answer to that question. Although they vary in the approaches
they take and the conclusions they draw, each contributor explores some
aspect of the moral obligations owed to children by their caregivers.
Some focus primarily on the responsibilities of parents, while others
focus on the responsibilities of society and government.
The essays reflect a mix of concern with the practical and the
philosophical aspects of taking responsibility for children, addressing
such topics as parental obligations, the rights and entitlements of
children, the responsibility of the state, the role and nature of public
education in a liberal society, the best ways to ensure adequate child
protection, the licensing of parents, children's religious education,
and children's health. Taking Responsibility for Children will be of
interest to philosophers, advocates for children's interests, and those
interested in public policy, especially as it relates to children and
families.