On The Hands Of The Restless Poor Analysis

Growing up this quote by Malcom X sets the tone for my attitude towards education. “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” In today’s world, a higher education is the cornerstone of life. Regarding the debate of a liberal education over the years, I concur with Shorris and his points in “On the Uses of a Liberal Education as a Weapon in the Hands of the Restless Poor” and want to qualify with Edmundson’s points in “On the Uses of a Liberal Education as Lite Entertainment for Bored College Students”. Edmundson used to think that a liberal education was beneficial for everyone and was originally for self-betterment. However, recently Edmundson suggests that liberal arts have changed their pedagogy and brings “a consumer weltanschauung to school”. While Shorris on the other hand who is unapologetically liberal believes liberal …show more content…
“I think that is the real difference between the haves and have-nots in the country. If you want real power, legitimate power, the kind that comes from the people and belongs to the people, you must understand politics. The humanities will help.” To clarify, giving them access to these humanities that other college students see and often take for granted can be the tools or “weapon” to help them see there are ways to become successful. Again, I reiterate my feelings on the issue are mixed. I do support Edmundson’s position regarding how some students see a liberal education in a mild light, nonetheless I find Shorris’ argument position and endeavor of education is equally persuasive. Sometimes students do need someone to believe in them, to help them see past the social stigmas, race, income, assumed levels of intelligence and see their true potential, and the significance they can have in the