European research and practice in gifted education vary by country, because of political, economical, and ideological influences. This paper examines activities in eastern and western European countries, emphasizing research activities in the Federal Republic of Germany, and outlines such controversial factors as equality of chances,…

This article examines recent trends in childhood and youth policy, political socialization, and civic education in the USA and Canada since 2000. It examines some of the current trends (such as political socialization and education research findings on children and youth) as well as policy initiatives (such as the landmark federal legislation…

Maintains that although Canada's private schools attempt to reproduce dominant cultural ideology, meritocracy and recruitment have created paradoxical effects. Academic competition results in fewer private school graduates being admitted to top universities. Further studies reveal no correlation between private school and financial success. (MJP)