As we consider how to rebuild a society of compassion rather than retribution and vengeance for actions that may have never even occurred, we need to look at the role of education – not rote learning like “Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492” – but the process of learning to think critically.
Education is neither “left” nor “right,” but the process of developing critical thinking, which comes from acquiring knowledge. But the knowledge must be based on facts, not sugary frosting on the cake of history. It means respecting scientific inquiry as well as some of its uncomfortable results rather than old prejudices and attitudes.
It’s notable that some of the most backward states have the lowest educational levels in the United States. Mississippi is at the bottom, but my favorite whipping boy, Alabama, is not far behind. More than poverty, cultural attitudes limit them, making these states not only the lowest in school spending, but in school safety and reading scores. But who needs to read? It only makes you think.
Prayer for the Day
Only a small dot in the vast universe you have created, O God,
We struggle to develop a better understanding of our world;
Bound by the limits we create for ourselves, O Lord,
We flounder about, unsure of our roles in this time.
Bring us into your orbit of understanding and care,
So we may live more faithfully one with another.
In the name of the One who transforms us,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Children must be taught how to think, not what to think.
Margaret Mead, cultural anthropologist (1901-1978)
Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.
Aristotle, Greek philosopher (384-322 BCE)
For learning about wisdom and instruction, for understanding words of insight,
For gaining instruction in wise dealing, righteousness, justice, and equity;
To teach shrewdness to the simple, knowledge and prudence to the young,
Let the wise also hear and gain in learning and the discerning acquire skill,
To understand a proverb and a figure, the words of the wise and their riddles.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
Fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Proverbs 1: 2-7