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The Case Against Education
416 pages, 2018
The conventional wisdom that a college education isae key to success is not only oversold, it's simply wrong. In this provocative book, Bryan Caplan argues that the primary function of education is not to enhance a student's skill but to certify their intelligence, work ethic, and conformity—in other words, to signal the qualities of a good employee. Learn why students hunt for easy As and casually forget most of what they learn after the final exam, why decades of increasing access to education have not resulted in better jobs for the average worker but instead in runaway credential inflation, and how employers reward workers for costly schooling they rarely if ever use, and why cutting education spending is the best remedy.
Bryan Caplan argues that the current education system is more about 'signaling' than imparting useful skills. He suggests that degrees are often just a way to show employers that you're a hard worker, rather than proof of specific knowledge or abilities.
Caplan explores the financial burden of education. He points out that the high cost of education often outweighs the benefits, especially when you consider the time and money spent on obtaining degrees that may not lead to high-paying jobs.
The author digs into the societal pressure to pursue higher education. He argues that this pressure often leads people to pursue degrees they don't need or have interest in, just to fit into societal norms.
Caplan emphasizes the importance of practical skills over theoretical knowledge. He believes that the education system should focus more on teaching skills that are directly applicable in the job market, rather than abstract academic knowledge.
In The Case Against Education, Caplan suggests that the education system needs a major overhaul. He proposes that we should invest more in vocational training and apprenticeships, which provide practical skills and direct pathways to employment.
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Bryan Caplan's book is a compelling and thought-provoking read that challenges the conventional wisdom about the value of education.
Tyler Cowen - Economist, AuthorCaplan's arguments in 'The Case Against Education' are a necessary antidote to our obsession with schooling.
Peter Thiel - Entrepreneur, InvestorBryan Caplan's book is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of education.
Arnold Kling - Economist, BloggerCaplan's 'The Case Against Education' is a brave and important challenge to the most sacred of all American idols.
Alex Tabarrok - Economist, Author