Monday, March 12, 2012

More on Education, Krugman's Logic


Here is a further pursuit on the effects of policy on the US education system.  Paul Krugman wrote a piece about the current state of our education system, and Krugman specifically targets the right wing for impeding on the growth of youthful minds.  The whole argument surrounds religion, and how colleges in the south have even parted away from certain majors that may contest what the bible has stated.

This question really sparks what I believe is a greater problem beyond the point of hindering human capital in America.  The standards that have been set by each party is something that I have had a problem with. 

Especially in the recent election, the GOP has reached out to focus on social hot button topics that ultimately ruin the opportunity for the fiscal policy to be implemented.  The economy should come first in the government system with the struggles of current times.

Another point to note is the final argument in Krugman’s piece.  If colleges are taking away certain majors in science departments, we are seriously crippling diversity in college education.  As of today, science majors have some of the highest growth potential, with innovation continuously occurring in the fields of science. 

The consequences of fewer schools offering science courses could cause a heavier flow of other majors to become impacted, including business and economics majors (two of the higher impacted majors already). 

My opinion is that it is likely that students going to colleges that aren’t offering these majors are schools with religious backgrounds.  Because of this, students aren’t going to be likely to partake in the same beliefs, hence little effect to the development in major diversification.  Even though it may not be the best for human capital growth in America, everyone should have a choice in what they want to pursue as a career.  In this case, Professor Krugman may be overlooking this matter, and should respect people’s decisions to follow their beliefs in their careers. 

Reference:
  1. Krugman, Paul. “Ignorance is Strength”. NY Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/09/opinion/krugman-ignorance-is-strength.html

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