By analogizing it to \u201cwarehouses\u201d and \u201csocial machines,\u201d Gatto effectively diminishes schooling as a method for conformity and institutionalized practices. Honestly speaking, I can\u2019t say I entirely disagree with Gatto\u2019s assessment. As part of a select privileged few who are able to attend a prestigious college such as Williams, we may look back at our education and say that it was worthwhile, necessary, and beneficial. Even with Gatto\u2019s criticisms in mind, I would say that now. But I would also that our education comes with a price: it comes with the price of only knowing how to act after we are familiar with the pre-established rules. Say, for example, that our Intro to Comparative Politics was taught as a lecture course. No raising of hands to express opinions, no anecdotes shared, no discussion. Simply facts and readings. What would the knowledge we gathered at the end of the semester look like then? I think it would look entirely different than what it will in a few months. When we aren\u2019t allowed to engage with the material we learn, we process information differently. Even now I catch myself in the trap of using the word \u201callow.\u201d But when everyone is so worried about acquiring a good grade, it certainly does feel like there is a system\u2014within you; outside of you; somewhere\u2014that holds power over you. In a world where schooling and meritocracy are of upmost importance, society teaches us to govern ourselves in a specific way.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
By analogizing it to \u201cwarehouses\u201d and \u201csocial machines,\u201d Gatto effectively diminishes schooling as a method for conformity and institutionalized practices. Honestly speaking, I can\u2019t say I entirely disagree with Gatto\u2019s assessment. As part of a select privileged few who are … Continue reading