Re: Blackmailing Universities and eliminating The Department of Education
My father was mistaken, but Trump is dangerously wrong.
When I was a kid, I used to devour novels. I did this partly because we lived a humble, sometimes boring country life, but I did it mainly because I thirsted for knowledge, adventure and escape. During holidays, it wasn’t uncommon for me to plow through 3 or 4 books a week. My parents didn’t censor my choices, so I discovered many fascinating stories and characters, which helped shape the person I am today.
My father Ronald worked construction and supported a large family on his single income. He laboured long hours to pay the bills, and he was adamant that his children should have a less demanding profession. Whenever we would discuss politics and whatever government shortcoming was the complaint of the day, dad would always end the conversation with the same misquote.
You know son, Winston Churchill said, “The worst thing you can do is educate the people.” When I was younger, I always took his statement to heart, because I believed that some radical governments would prefer their population to be simple minded folk, who didn’t have the knowledge to question or object to those in power.
After hearing Trump’s Executive Order to do away with The Department of Education, and his blackmailing of universities by withholding funding, my father’s misspoken attribution came back to the forefront of my mind. I find the cowardly capitulation of those educational institutions, make dad’s words ring true.
I searched google for some clue, of who, if anyone had coined that phrase. Since I cannot find any evidence of its origin, I will credit the quote to Ronald King may he rest in peace. Below you can find what AI has to say about the subject. My conclusion on the topic, is that I wholeheartedly agree with my father’s and google’s opinion on the matter.
AI Overview
The statement "the worst thing you can do is educate the people" suggests that knowledge and critical thinking are seen as detrimental to a society, potentially implying a desire for control and manipulation rather than empowerment.
Here's a breakdown of why this statement is problematic:
Suppression of Knowledge:
The core idea is that educating people is a negative thing, implying that knowledge and critical thinking skills are undesirable.
Control and Manipulation:
By limiting access to information and education, those in power can maintain control and manipulate the population more easily.
Undermining Progress:
Education is a cornerstone of progress and societal advancement. By opposing it, the statement suggests a desire to stagnate rather than move forward.
Historical Context:
Throughout history, those in power have often tried to suppress education to maintain their authority, as an educated populace is less easily controlled.
Empowerment through Education:
Education empowers individuals to make informed decisions, participate in democracy, and contribute to society in meaningful ways.