The State has to pursue the common good of society, and so
the State also has rights and duties concerning the education
of its citizens. However, this does not authorize the State to "usurp" or
limit the parents' duty. As is the case with all human rights,
it is not enough simply to acknowledge that parents have this
right: it is also necessary to take the necessary steps to ensure
that this is put into practice (for example, by providing financial
aid). This is particularly important in the area of education,
because education is so decisive for people's development. If
freedom in this area is restricted, this will have unfortunate
consequences for people and for the common good. A truly democratic
society therefore ought not to challenge parents' rights, but
instead ought to cooperate with parents' freedom to educate as
they consider appropriate.
|