Educating the Skilled but Uneducated: Reflections on a Different Kind of Intelligence
It is a well-known fact that there is a significant gap between those who are highly educated and those who are skilled in a particular trade or profession. The disparity between book-smarts and practical skills has long been a subject of debate. While specialized training can certainly equip individuals with the ability to perform specific tasks, a deeper understanding of why we do things and their broader implications is what sets an educated person apart.
The Dichotomy of Skill and Wisdom
Skilled individuals are not a rarity. They abound in every field, from medicine to computer science, and even in the business world. However, the line between skill and knowledge can sometimes become blurred. A highly trained computer scientist who enjoys playing video games or a skilled surgeon who lives a lifestyle more fitting to fast food culture might not necessarily grasp the deeper implications of their actions. These individuals can get by without a full understanding of the broader purpose or the ethical implications of their work.
The question then arises: what does it mean to be truly educated? Education is not just about learning how to do things; it is about reflecting on why things are done, and understanding the wisdom accumulated throughout human history. An educated person understands the underlying principles and can apply them to a variety of situations, not just the specific tasks they are trained to do.
The Case of General Mac Namara and His 'Morons'
One example that highlights this distinction is the case of Robert MacNamara and the 'Morons' in the Vietnam War. Despite their technical proficiency, these individuals were ill-equipped to understand the human aspect of war. MacNamara and his team lowered the qualifications for enlistment, enlisting individuals with low IQs because they could meet recruitment quotas. While they were skilled in logistics, their lack of education and common sense hindered their ability to grasp the significance of the war and its impacts. This example underscores the importance of education beyond mere technical skills.
The Power of Reflection on History and Ethics
Reflection on history and ethics is what differentiates educated individuals from those who are merely skilled. For instance, a military general who has studied the humanities and history can better understand the broader implications of warfare. They can ask themselves questions about the morality and strategic value of military actions, as opposed to merely focusing on troop deployment and logistics.
Consider the example of General George S. Patton. Despite his technical expertise, he had a penchant for reflecting on the great battles of the past, imagining discussions with historical generals. He understood the importance of intelligence and the value of competent, knowledgeable soldiers, not just those with physical strength.
A Call for Broad Education in Academia and Beyond
The lack of education in a society full of high-skilled but uneducated individuals is a matter of great concern. It is essential to focus on educating people by going beyond technical training. Encouraging the formation of study groups that read works by leading educators like MIT’s Professor Joseph Weizenbaum, for instance, in his book “Computer Power and Human Reason: From Judgment to Calculation,” can help bridge this gap.
Moreover, leaders like General Mark Milley, who try to understand the minds of their enemies, exemplify the need for a broader educational approach. Such leaders recognize the value of understanding the broader context and implications of their actions, rather than merely executing specific tasks.
Education is not only about instruction but also about empowering individuals to reflect on their choices and actions. It is about understanding the value of humanistic principles and applying them to various aspects of life, from personal to professional.
By focusing on educating people rather than just training them, we can ensure that every individual, whether in academia or in business, is capable of making informed and ethical decisions. After all, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, as the saying goes. And that step towards enlightenment must start with education.