The Meaning and Justifications for DEG in a Democracy: a Taxonomical Approach

Abstract

This article is an attempt to (1) conceptually clarify and stabilize the meaning of 'Differential Education for the Gifted (DEG)' in form of a taxonomy, and (2) to justify DEG within a procedural democracy. With these objectives in mind, the author hopes to counteract the atheoretical nature of so-called 'gifted, talented,' or 'creative' education by offering a conceptually tight knowledge base for DEG. The writer also intends to make a strong case for DEG by convincing those educators who still question, label, or oppose differential educational treatment of gifted youth as being elitist or anti-democratic in an egalitarian society.