Education: The Way Forward

Many, but not all, of the major problems facing society today are self-inflicted wounds. These stem from people's ignorance and lack of critical thinking skills. Ignorance is not due to lack of intelligence or knowledge but lack of understanding. Too much of what we "know" is based on persuasion, not on rational proof. In our society, decision making is too often not based on sound reasoning. This partly is the fault of our educational systems. Skill subjects such as logic, argumentation, reasoning, coherent debate and so on are not taught seriously in our schools because they are not valued. That needs to change. Having a thorough grasp of these skills will benefit each student and allow them to fully utilize all the other skills that are learned in school and provide a pathway to future learning. These should be part of every student's curriculum and these skills will benefit all of society. I believe a passing grade in this subject should be required for graduation.

Healthy skepticism is the hallmark of nobody's fool. Asking respectful questions and insisting on thoughtful and reasoned answers is the way to resolve most conflicting points of view or to reach a consensus on most issues.

Part of an intelligent discourse will recognize that there are emotional and aesthetic components to many subjects of discussion which cannot be resolved with cold logic. However, emotion should not rule.

Students should learn to cherish liberty, independent thinking, self reliance and accountability, as well as the humanities.

Finally, education is so important to human and societal development, society should do almost anything to prevent a student from dropping out of school.  Incomplete education is an incredible waste of a human resource and frequently leads to an increased burden on society. School attendance (public, private or home) should be mandatory and enforced. As an investment, transportation, clothing, nutrition assistance, or intervention should be provided at public expense, if necessary. Every effort should be made to reengage parents with the education of their children. The purpose of education is not solely to learn how to make a living but also about making one's way through life.