How Classical Education Impacts Democracy - A Call For Restoration
Jun 26, 2024
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Richard Livingstone, author of 'A Defense of Classical Education', discusses the importance of classical education in sustaining democracy. He emphasizes the link between education, morals, and the longevity of a democracy. The podcast explores the role of classical education in personal development, critical thinking, and self-government, highlighting its relevance in modern society.
Classical education is crucial for sustaining a democracy by cultivating morals and virtues in individuals.
Contrary to popular belief, classical education adapts to modern societal dynamics and fosters critical thinking skills.
Deep dives
Understanding Classical Education
Classical education involves engaging with Greek and Roman history, literature, and philosophy to make informed decisions. It encompasses the trivium of rhetoric and logic and the quadrivium of arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and music, along with learning Greek and Latin. Richard Livingston emphasizes the benefits of clear thinking and effective expression through classical education.
Arguments Against Classical Education
Contrary to the misconception that classical education resists modernity, it actually fosters growth and positive change. Classical education aims to learn from history's mistakes and successes to navigate evolving societal dynamics wisely. While acknowledging past flaws associated with classical education, it serves as a foundation for moral understanding and critical dialogue.
Impact of Classical Education on Government
Classical education guards against ignorance in a democracy by cultivating understanding of societal origins and values. It encourages individuals to think critically, fostering a culture of reasoned debate and mutual respect. By upholding the tradition of classical education, society can maintain harmony amidst diverse perspectives, ensuring a collective framework for self-governance and free thought.
Classical education has fallen out of popularity over the past century. We are in the process of finding out if that was a good or bad thing and the evidence is becoming more clear. We may have chosen the wrong path to progress down. There is no shame in backing up and starting over again. History is littered with examples of this. In his book "A Defense of Classical Education", Richard Livingstone explains the importance of defending a classical education. The important point I want to drive home is that classical education appears to be the best form of education to sustain a democracy. A Democratic Republic's survival is dependent on the quality of the people voting and deciding on representatives. If the morals, virtues, and character break down in society then a democracy can not be expected to stand for very long. A classical education is the glue that holds all of this together. This series is to shine a light on this issue. I hope you enjoy reading and the videos!