Rethinking Education: Practical Skills vs Traditional Systems

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Exploring the contrast between practical life skills learned in underdeveloped cultures and the limitations of formal education in preparing individuals for real-world scenarios. The chapter also delves into the historical evolution of education influenced by geopolitical factors, elite disparities, and the changing purpose of education from traditional liberal arts to workforce preparation. It challenges the current education system's neglect of teaching values and ethics, advocating for a renaissance in education to address deep ethical questions and engage in dialogue about intrinsic human values.

On this episode, Nate is joined by philosopher and educator Zak Stein to discuss the current state of education and development for children during a time of converging crises and societal transformation. As the pace of life continues to accelerate - including world-shaking technological developments - our schools struggle to keep pace with changes in cultural expectations. What qualities are we encouraging in a system centered on competition and with no emphasis on creating agency or community participation? How is unfettered technology and artificial intelligence influencing youth - and what should parents, adults, and teachers be doing in response? What could the future of education look like if guided by true teacherly authority with the aim to create well-rounded, stable young humans with a sense of belonging and purpose in their communities?

About Zak Stein:

Dr. Zak Stein is a philosopher of education, as well as a Co-founder of the Center for World Philosophy and Religion. He is also the Co-founder of Civilization Research Institute, the Consilience Project, and Lectica, Inc. He is the author of dozens of published papers and two books, including Education in a Time Between Worlds.

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Show Notes

00:00 - Zak Stein works + Info, Civilization Research Institute, Education in a Time Between Worlds, Center for World Philosophy and Religion, First Principles and First Values

03:24 - No Child Left Behind

03:56 - Joseph Tainter + TGS episode

03:53 - Iatrogenic

05:30 - Daniel Schmachtenberger (TGS Episodes), Ken Wilbur, Marc Gafney

16:01 - Effects of screens and social media on teen mental health

16:54 - Marshall McLuhan

17:20 - The importance of adult boundary and limit setting for children

18:17 - How social media affects the brain

19:06 - The rise of ADHD in the 90s and effects on education - a timeline