Letters | Why basic economics should be a core subject in school
- Readers discuss a failing of the modern school curriculum, and the implications of Unesco’s new report on education
The modern education system used in many countries focuses on five core subjects: maths, native language, science, history and a foreign language. Of these core subjects, the most importance is placed on maths and language classes, with the other classes supplementing the student’s maths or language abilities.
Particularly in anglophone countries, the dichotomy is represented in a question akin to the age-old “vanilla or chocolate?”, that is, whether one has a talent for maths or for English. This funnels all thinking through the lens of one’s own maths ability or English skills without regard for the life lessons and critical thinking needed for adult life.
If the purpose of the education system is to prepare the youth for their futures, then why aren’t young people taught basic civic responsibilities and the realities of adult life?
The benefits of a separate civics and economics class to round out the core subjects would be well represented in the financial health of the youngest generation. Among the youth there is a serious disconnect between the concept of money and how that affects them.