American social trends and the consequent developments in educational approach and philosophy from the time of the Civil War to the present day are examined. The transition from an agricultural to an industrialized society is discussed in relation to American definitions and conceptions of educational structures. The socioeconomic environment of a highly technological culture is identified as a "post-industrialized society," and the interaction between resultant socioeconomic patterns and educational philosophy and process is considered. This discussion and analysis of socioeconomic, cultural, and educational trends leans heavily on the work of Daniel Bell, an essayist concerned with the impact of a technological culture on educational development. (LH)