A Nation of Workers

"I don't want a nation of thinkers; I want a nation of workers." John D. Rockefeller

The history of education in America did not originate from a mandatory system. However, as the nation grew and technology advanced, it became apparent that such a system was necessary. The government needed a means to instill discipline and punctuality in the younger generation and ensure they completed their assignments. In the 1800s, Horace Mann, a prominent American politician, became inspired by the Prussian educational model during his visit to Germany. He played a pivotal role in the US government's decision to adopt a similar system. The Prussian model mandated education, which meant that children and parents had no say in attendance. The model was structured around grade-based teaching and aimed to mold children into employees that could meet the country's needs. The education of the youth is crucial to the future of any country. While a strong military can secure a nation from external threats, education is essential for its internal growth and progress.

A quote attributed to John D. Rockefeller goes, "I need a nation of workers, not thinkers." However, it is essential to note that Rockefeller later spent 40 years of his life dedicated to philanthropy, focusing on improving education and science in America. He recognized the importance of a capable and well-educated workforce and worked to ensure that young people were prepared to contribute to a growing economy. Although his philanthropic efforts were also a strategic investment to keep factories operating, they ultimately increased American prosperity.

In the past, the Prussian system facilitated social mobility for the younger generation, while factories were able to surpass the production capacities of other countries. However, achieving economic and military supremacy is only possible when educated individuals collaborate effectively.

Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves; otherwise we will be scattered over the face of the whole earth.”But the Lord came down to see the city and the tower the people were building. The Lord said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. (Genesis 11:4-6, NIV).

When people come together solely for their glory and ignore the God who gave them life, it's risky, much like the builders of Babel. The existing system has benefited the government and corporations and shaped young minds, which can be advantageous if done correctly. The younger generation in the United States is taught the importance of punctuality and academic diligence, leading to opportunities and success. However, those who struggle academically may face difficult circumstances. Our towers are built for our benefit, much like Babel, but we must not forget the God who gave us our abilities.

For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles. Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen. Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed shameful acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their error. (Romans 1:21-27, NIV).

The government is responsible for providing education, but there is disagreement about how much control it should have. Regardless of personal beliefs, punctuality and accountability are crucial. Learning fundamental tools like math, literature, history, biology, and music is essential to gain self-awareness. However, subjects like philosophy, theology, and spirituality are better left to individual families. Society shouldn't dictate its curriculum, and although there may be exceptions for topics like sexuality and religion, parents or guardians should take the lead in educating their children.

The government should not use sexuality and gender studies to promote a particular narrative. Unfortunately, the lack of respect for individual beliefs is a significant issue in the United States. To promote fairness, some members of the LGBTQ+ community are asking for their desired gender to be recognized as inherent. This has led to a constantly evolving demographic frequently adding new symbols and colors to a flag that reflects their uncertainty about their identity. Religion should not be instructed in a school outside of basic moral judgments; don't steal, kill, rape, etc. As a Christian, I do not want the practice of Islam to be taught. I am sure a Muslim would feel the same regarding Christianity. Of course, this is challenging in our country as strong opinions are held on all sides. The idea is for people from many religions and cultures to work together for God's glory. While we may disagree on many theologies, we can agree on acceptable social interactions that work for God’s glory indirectly.

There is a current debate about the teaching of Critical Race Theory (CRT) in schools when it comes to history. While it is widely acknowledged that slavery was a morally reprehensible institution in the United States, some are questioning the relevance of highlighting systemic racism in modern society through CRT. Recognizing the complex challenges African Americans face in their struggle is essential. However, we must also strive to move forward. There was indeed discrimination against non-white races during the development of the United States, but this is not surprising given the nation's history of slavery.

Educating children on sensitive topics like accepting different sexual orientations and acknowledging racism as a systemic issue in America can sometimes lead to social tension when the government takes control of these personal and individual matters. Rather than focusing on controversial topics, it may be more effective to prioritize core subjects like math and science, which are essential for success in various professions and form the basis for lifelong learning.

In addition, when the government becomes the authority on issues like sexuality and religion, it takes away from the personal and individual nature of these topics, potentially causing further tension in society. Instead, it may be more productive to focus on teaching fundamental subjects, such as math and science, in schools, which are essential for success in many careers and provide a solid foundation for lifelong learning. More nuanced topics, such as sexuality and religion, may be best discussed in the home, where individuals can explore their personal beliefs and values in a safe and supportive environment. By taking this approach, we can ensure that our educational system provides students with the skills they need to succeed while respecting our society's diverse beliefs and perspectives.

While American education follows the Prussian method, it only serves as a foundation for individuals to prepare for their careers. However, it does not aim to educate individuals on a spiritual level. The church and parents have significant roles in providing education beyond government-sanctioned training. It is easy to identify a collapsing society when the system loses its drive for progress and regresses over matters such as gender and history that cannot be changed. Even if the government were to enforce its desires through coercion, it would not be beneficial, as the nation would only disintegrate in the name of equality.

The primary aim of the American public education system is to equip young learners with the necessary skills to become future leaders in the nation. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the youth are not influenced negatively by individuals with disruptive intentions of undermining the nation by prioritizing their own interests over the country's welfare. Regardless of personal opinions towards Rockefeller, his statement is accurate. It is essential to have a workforce and an educational system that prepares the youth for success, enabling them to collaborate effectively, rather than a system that creates division through its curriculum.