Democratic ideals are not known instinctively, but must be purposely taught, for an educated, informed citizenry is vital to the well-being of every democracy. The essential assumptions and values of democracy include the principle of inalienable rights, respect for certain institutions such as a representative government, an independent judiciary, the family, and the church. A democracy depends on schools which help to foster a kind of character which respects the law, is willing both to offer and accept criticism, and respects the value of the individual. When teaching about democracy, the schools need only to give the children the truth; democracy's achievements as well as its faults. Children should know the whole truth about their own countries and should know that there are systems of government that cannot be morally sanctioned. If students are given the whole truth about democracy's record and the comparable record of other political systems, they will never hesitate to stand up for democracy. (APG)