American Thought Leaders
‘Universities Have Lost Their Way’: Ralston College President Stephen Blackwood
Dec 15, 2024
Stephen Blackwood, the founding president of Ralston College, champions the revival of a transformative humanities education. He critiques modern universities' focus on job training and the rise of ideological nihilism, calling for a return to deep, meaningful learning. Blackwood emphasizes the importance of community in education, the dual mission of universities in preserving and discovering knowledge, and the significance of graduation rituals in marking personal transformation. He advocates for fostering human dignity through shared cultural values.
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Quick takeaways
- Stephen Blackwood argues that universities have strayed from their original purpose of fostering critical thinking and intellectual engagement.
- Ralston College aims to revitalize humanities education by promoting deep contemplation on human existence and moral questions.
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The Importance of Humanities in Education
Humanities play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, particularly concerning moral and existential questions. The objective of studying humanities is to enable people to reflect on what constitutes a life worth living, particularly as they approach their own mortality. Through the exploration of literature, philosophy, and history, students engage with fundamental questions about human existence, morality, and the fleeting nature of life. This engagement fosters critical thinking and self-awareness, equipping individuals to confront challenges and uncertainties as they arise.
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