schweblog

The Economist recently published an opinion piece how Europe is “failing its young” with regards to higher education. Apparently, the college structure in America is far superior to that of most European countries:America boasts 17 of the world’s top 20 universities, according to a widely used global ranking by the Shanghai Jiao Tong University. American universities currently employ 70% of the world’s Nobel prize-winners, 30% of the world’s output of articles on science and engineering, and 44% of the most frequently cited articles. No wonder developing countries now look to America rather than Europe for a model for higher education.

In addition, The Economist stipulates that the differences between the university structures are not necessarily the quality of the teachers or the students, but the structure of the university and its funding. Most European countries publically fund their universities, which has proven to be ineffective and detrimental to the overall quality of the schooling. It makes sense: since the state is funding what would otherwise be a “private” institution, demands can be made by the state and the university is forced to adapt. The demands could range from more classes offered to less stringent admissions, but usually its going to spread the staff thin.

It makes sense on the other end, though, as well. In my own experience, I’ve stumbled upon several fellow students that are actively paying their way through college. They’re usually working at least one job (sometimes two) while juggling classes and a social life quite well. Hell, I’m one of them. The large percentage of these people are also highly motivated in school and are usually passing with flying colors. It isn’t “too much” for them. It’s just enough to make them realize the worth of what they’re getting. People value what they pay for. If you hand something to a kid coming fresh out of high school who hasn’t had to work for anything a day in his/her life, the overall worth of what they’re being offered will not be realized.

The bigger point? Want/need can be a positive motivating factor. Creating systems where people don’t have to really work for what they’re getting only leads to mediocrity. I’m not advocating a system that lets the starving folks rot on the side of the street, but I do think that a general realization needs to occur: the government cannot solve all of your problems. Somewhere down the line, you’re going to have to get on your own two feet and take care of yourself. If you can’t, we’ll grind you up and make you into hamburger meat.