This book chapter describes the evolution of the concept of social education in the Hong Kong educational setting and identifies its major characterists basing on a comparative analysis of the syllabi of related subjects published at different periods of time (Social Studies in 1967 and 1980 and General Studies in 1997). The concept of social education as reflected in these curriculum documents is critically examined and evaluated in the light of the local context, the different perspectives on curriculum development, and its recent developments in the US. Implications for the implementation and effectiveness of citizenship education in Hong Kong primary schools are discussed.
