"Public School Education" by Michael Müller is a critical examination of the public education system in 19th-century America from a Catholic perspective. Müller argues that the secular nature of public schools undermines the moral values and religious instruction essential for a child's proper development. He emphasizes the importance of faith-based education, asserting that without religious guidance, children are at risk of losing their ethical foundation. The book advocates for parental authority in choosing an educational path aligned with Christian upbringing and moral teachings. Müller challenges the growing separation of church and state, highlighting the potential dangers of excluding religious influence from the classroom. He calls for education reform that integrates religious instruction into the curriculum, believing that true education must nurture both the intellect and the soul. "Public School Education" is a passionate defense of Catholic education and its role in shaping morally and spiritually grounded individuals.
Michael Müller (1825–1899) was a German-American Catholic priest and author known for his staunch defense of Catholic doctrine and his influential writings on religious education. Born in Germany, Müller joined the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, commonly known as the Redemptorists, and was ordained as a priest. He immigrated to the United States in the mid-19th century, where he became a prominent figure in the Catholic Church. Müller was deeply concerned with the moral and religious upbringing of children, particularly in the context of public education. He believed that education should be rooted in Catholic teachings and was critical of the secular nature of public schools in the United States. His book "Public School Education" reflects these concerns, advocating for the rights of parents to ensure their children receive an education aligned with their religious beliefs. Müller argued that public schools, by excluding religious instruction, endangered the moral development of children and undermined the influence of the Church. Throughout his life, Müller was a vocal advocate for the Church's role in education and was involved in debates over the separation of church and state. His writings had a significant impact on Catholic education in America and continue to be referenced in discussions of religious education.
