'Paulo Freire and Pedagogy of the Oppressed': Henry A. Giroux in conversation with Brad Evans

First published in 1970, Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed is considered one of the foundational texts of critical pedagogy. Combining philosophical, political, and educational theories, and based on his own experience helping Brazilian adults to read and write, Freire’s book is a powerful exploration of the relationship between the colonizer and the colonized.

Pedagogy of the Oppressed was a life-changing book for Henry A. Giroux. As he says in an interview, “it gave me a language that enabled education to be understood as a political process. It is a book that changed the conception of what it means to work with people who were normally considered ‘voiceless’, and understand that they do have a voice and can narrate to themselves”.

This conversation with Giroux reflects upon the seismic impact of Freire’s book, as well as its impact in our contemporary era in which neoliberalism has emerged not only as an economic model but also a public pedagogy that permeates everything.

Henry A. Giroux is one of the founding theorists of critical pedagogy in the United States. He is best known for his pioneering work in public pedagogy, cultural studies, youth studies, higher education, media studies, and critical theory. He currently holds the McMaster University Chair for Scholarship in the Public Interest in the Department of English and Cultural Studies.

Brad Evans is a political philosopher, critical theorist, and writer whose work focuses on the problem of violence. He is the author of twenty books and edited volumes, along with over a hundred and fifty academic and international media articles. He is the founding director of the Centre for the Study of Violence (to be launched 2023) and holds a Chair in Political Violence & Aesthetics at the University of Bath.

[ricktydc]

So cool to hear Henry speak to issues of the moment, with a perspective so grounded in a rich history...especially Paulo's commitment to democracy and education and his transformative intent. He continues to remind and sharpen my lens since having the great pleasure learning from him during his years in Boston. Thank you for continuing to fight the good fight with such critical insight and energy.!

[marialeidysmachado]

The point that Mr. Giroux made about the quote he like in "Pedagogy of the Oppressed " Paulo Freire made my think about my country Cuba where the misery and poverty, didn't let me think about nothing but "where I am going to get my next meal." there I never thought of nothing else. Education incline me think the same way as the government want me to..Only their books are allowed and education is fixed in teaching their doctrine. An empty stomach doesn't care much about political issues . You are correct on that. Now that I am here I see the difference.

[kcitf]

13:55 Just what does Henry think of the Obama HOPE posters for his campaign?