Reply #13: But that's not what he's arguing against; he's taking on the "public" [View All]

[Igel]

aspect, not the "economic" aspect.

If public education is a means to avert economic decline, and private education is better than public, then private education is a better means. I think he'd prefer we think that education aids prosperity. By pulling economics in, he's raising the stakes.

You're right, most proponents of public education aren't saying public education will avert economic decline. But if you look at current discourse on the role of public education, seemingly generated by Bill Gates, the "economic decline" aspect is touted by a few rather outspoken folks. I'm not sure if this predates the latest bout of articles, but it's been in the lurking wings for a while.

I'm unconvinced his thesis is correct. I can see how it could have a few benefits, but I'm far from sure they outweight the deleterious effects.