Abstract

This dissertation is a comparison and contrast of the educational theories of John Henry Newman and John Lancaster Spalding. Newman is known for his great book, The Idea Of A University, whereas Spalding is known for his university, The Catholic University of America. ;Running through Newman's work is a preoccupation with the practice of one's religion vs. the theological root of that same religion, whereas Spalding stresses the need for an intellectual environment in which to train the clergy. ;Newman tried to set down specific, logical reasons for the foundation of a catholic university whereas Spalding was trying to create a national school of catholic education. Newman was interested in the "why" of catholic education, and Spalding was interested in the "how" of catholic education. For Newman, a university was a place of teaching universal knowledge, whereas for Spalding, a university will teach only the best student and encourage him to do research. ;Both Newman and Spalding encouraged a cultivated intellect, but Newman saw this cultivated intellect as one which is the result of a liberal education, as opposed to Spalding's "directed" education. ;Newman desired to create an atmosphere of thought which is conducive to forming the philosophical habit of mind. And Spalding sought to create the tools whereby the mind may gather and disseminate the philosophy of religion. ;Oddly enough, both were into experiencial education of nature thereby giving the student a means to self-education, Spalding sought the young man to educate himself through observation, reading, writing, and reflection. Newman agreed with these points, but took the student beyond his own reflections, and asked him to read books, intercourse with people and study life to further the liberal philosophy of one's own mind