SS #79: East Meets West: Classical Education in China (with Ravi Jain!!)
Oct 23, 2020
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Ravi Jain, an educator with expertise in mathematics and a background in classical education, joins the discussion. The conversation dives into the intersections of multiculturalism and classical education in China, exploring the challenges of introducing Christian teachings in an Eastern context. They reflect on significant literary works and their philosophical implications, while emphasizing the need for a respectful fusion of Western and Chinese cultures. Jain also shares insights on the difficulties faced by Chinese educators and the importance of community in navigating these complexities.
Classical education fosters a love for learning through history and literature, promoting wisdom over rote memorization and standardized testing.
The adaptation of Western educational practices in non-Western contexts like China emphasizes the importance of cultural respect while preserving core Christian values.
The discussion critiques the intersection of science and politics, highlighting the rise of scientific fraud amid political influences and the importance of ethical standards.
Deep dives
The Value of Classical Education
Classical education is emphasized as a transformational approach that seeks to cultivate a deep understanding of knowledge through history and literature. This educational philosophy prioritizes the love for learning and the pursuit of wisdom over mere rote learning and standardized testing. The discussion highlights that classical education is not just about Western ideals but about connecting students to the entire body of historical Christian thought. That connection fosters a sense of belonging to a broader heritage that encourages critical thinking and the exploration of truth.
Multiculturalism vs. Christian Values
The conversation touches on the complexities of multiculturalism within the framework of Christian classical education, particularly in non-Western contexts. There is an exploration of how Western educational practices can be adapted and respected in different cultures, such as in China, while maintaining the core Christian values that bind them. It is emphasized that Christianity transcends cultural boundaries, and the essence of Christian education is to uplift and redeem traditions rather than completely overwrite them. This nuanced understanding allows for a richer dialogue about identity and faith in a globalized world.
Engagement with Chinese Culture
The podcast discusses the experiences of educators in China who are committed to maintaining the integrity of Christian teachings while navigating the complexities of their cultural landscape. It reflects on the importance of authenticity in religious teaching and the resistance against altering core Christian doctrines to fit political or cultural pressures. The educators express a desire to engage with their rich heritage while also absorbing valuable lessons from Christianity that promise a brighter future for China. This duality reflects an insightful journey towards developing an authentic Chinese expression of Christian education.
The Role of Science and Tradition
The interplay between science, politics, and traditional values is critically examined, particularly concerning the integrity of scientific practices in policy-making. One of the key insights is the troubling rise of scientific fraud when science's influence extends into legislation, which poses risks to both public trust and ethical standards. This perspective opens a dialogue on the need for rigorous ethical frameworks and the importance of traditional wisdom in guiding scientific practice. It suggests a call for the incorporation of historical truths into current scientific and political discourse to preserve integrity.
Christianity as a Foundation
The enduring impact of Christianity on Western civilization is championed as a significant foundation for democratic ideals and moral philosophy. This recognition calls for a deeper appreciation of the historical developments that shaped modern values, which are often overshadowed by contemporary critiques. The assertion is made that Christian principles fostered the rule of law and a respect for diverse ethnicities, thereby contributing to societal stability and the flourishing of democracy. The podcast concludes that reclaiming this foundation is essential in countering the prevailing currents of materialism and secularism that threaten to erode these hard-won liberties.
Our guest today is Ravi Jain, who is now tied with Cindy Rollins for the Scholé Sisters title for Most Appearances as this is his third time on the show. Ravi Jain has a BA from Davidson College, an M.A. from Reformed Theological Seminary, and a Graduate Certificate in Mathematics from the University of Central Florida. He coauthored The Liberal Arts Tradition with Kevin Clark, now translated into Chinese.
Ravi currently teaches Calculus, AP Calculus, and Physics at the Geneva School in Orlando, Florida. He has given over 150 talks and workshops throughout America, Africa, and China on topics related to education, theology, mathematics, and science. He has served as a deacon in his church and is a founding Alcuin fellow. He enjoys spending time with his two boys, Judah and Xavier, and his wife Kelley Anne, whom he met in Japan.
Today’s discussion is Brandy's favorite so far from this season because she finally got to ask Ravi Jain about a number of things she's been thinking pondering; his thoughts on things like multiculturalism and Western Imperialism and how they relate to Christian Classical education in general and the Christian classical school movement in China in particular are fascinating.
Have you joined the Scholé Sisters Sistership yet? If not, you are missing out on some of the best conversations for classical homeschooling moms on the internet. Mystie is leading a book study for Sophie level members through The Liberal Arts Tradition right now. It’s never too late to join because this study will always be available for Sophies in the form of a study guide. This is just one of the many benefits of a Sophie level Sistership membership. Click here to join!
