Sometimes I have serious reservations about the "left." Richard's remarks
on education are precisely the same as though of Milton Friedman and others
circa 1968-1973. This was precisely the point in time colleges and college
financing were forced open to accommodate working class students --
especially African American students.
But, if we are going to take this giant step backwards why stop with
public funding of a college education? Let's abolish all public assistance
for any level of education!!! Let education be a fully private good. That
way, corporations and foundations will provide scholarships to the most
meritorious students. Average students can receive an education by having
their education financed through equity loans on their parents' home.
If a student's parents do not a home or some other asset which can be used
for collateral, then let the student borrow from private banks based on the
expected future earnings from obtaining a high school diploma, college
degree, etc. Under a fully private system, only those students that are willing
and able to pay the cost of an education will receive one. And, no one is
forced to subsidize someone else's education.
18th century liberalism? I'm down with it!!!
patrick l mason
