Educational Trends Over a Century
One hundred years ago, only around 10% of new American high school graduates went on to college. Today, that figure has soared to 61%. But is this truly a positive change?
It seems unlikely, at least to some.
Robert M. Hutchins wrote, “The purpose of education is wisdom.” But have modern university students really gained wisdom during their time in college?
Or do they instead reflect what Douglas Murray describes as nihilistic views? He points out, “You are a meaningless being in a meaningless universe.”
Nihilism, in a way, isn’t the worst outcome. If graduates only embraced a nihilistic mindset, perhaps they would indulge themselves and leave the rest of us in peace. But, sadly, as Murray observes, “Most people in life want some form of certainty.” Many graduates, unlike the questioning Socrates, feel compelled to proclaim, with certainty, that America is fundamentally racist.
So, is it surprising that our purportedly “best” university products seem more focused on silencing political opponents, prosecuting lawyers, and censoring conservative viewpoints? These actions certainly breach norms that have been upheld for centuries. Yet, who cares about those norms when they are seen as established by, as some would put it, “evil white men”?
Decades back, James Friedman, former president of Dartmouth College, stated, “The purpose of university education is to question the values of fathers.” Today’s students seem to take this to heart, transforming from innocent kids into adults who harbor resentment toward America.
At university, students learn to view American history as a crime. Instead of celebrating what sets this nation apart—like its Republican government or emphasis on individual liberty—they find themselves preoccupied with historical themes like slavery and racism.
“Thomas Jefferson owned slaves!” is a refrain often echoed, as if they lived in his era and ignored the incredible prosperity the nation he helped establish has provided. Millions strive to come to America, not to countries like China or Botswana. It might be worth pondering: Why do so many flock to these “racist, sexist, xenophobic” lands?
In a recent discussion, Harvard President Alan Gerber suggested that America would face consequences if President Trump holds back funding from Harvard. To that, I would argue: no, the opposite is likely true. If the government restricts support for American universities, it might actually result in a better outcome.
Things weren’t always this way. Back in the 18th century, Harvard was a revered institution that required students to translate biblical texts from Hebrew and Greek into Latin to graduate. Likewise, Yale’s President Ezra Styles insisted that students master certain poetic works that were viewed as essential.
There is a genuine need for universities, such as Harvard and Yale, to continue presenting the treasures of Western civilization to students, effectively guiding them through it all.
There are, in fact, a few institutions in the country that strive to do this. Hillsdale College stands out as a key example. However, until we see many more like it, perhaps having fewer university graduates may not be such a bad thing.
