Fareed Zakaria addresses the Class of 2014 at Sarah Lawrence College

SarahLawrenceCollege
23 May 201417:58

Summary

TLDRThe speaker at a Sarah Lawrence College commencement ceremony reflects on the value of a liberal arts education amidst a climate where it is often undervalued. He shares anecdotes, including a humorous story about President John F. Kennedy, and highlights the importance of critical thinking, articulate communication, and the joy of learning. He emphasizes that a liberal education fosters not just professional success but also enriches personal life and contributes to a well-rounded citizenry, drawing on the legacy of great thinkers and the necessity of lifelong learning.

Takeaways

  • 😀 The speaker humorously acknowledges the pressure of following a renowned commencement speaker, Julianna Margulies, and his own limitations in comparison.
  • 🌍 JFK's trip to Europe during the Cold War highlights the importance of international diplomacy and the role of the President.
  • 🎓 The speaker's personal connection to Sarah Lawrence College through his wife's graduation in 2010 adds a layer of authenticity to his remarks.
  • 📚 The script emphasizes the value of a liberal arts education in a time when it is often undervalued, especially in comparison to technical skills.
  • 🤔 The speaker reflects on his own educational journey, from a focus on science and math to a realization of his passion for the humanities.
  • 📈 The liberal arts are defended as integral to a well-rounded education, with the ability to foster critical thinking, communication, and cultural understanding.
  • 📝 Writing is presented as a crucial skill developed through a liberal education, with the act of writing helping to clarify and articulate thoughts.
  • 💬 Speaking skills are also highlighted as an important aspect of a liberal education, with the ability to express oneself clearly being valuable in all professions.
  • 🧠 The process of learning how to learn is identified as one of the most valuable outcomes of a liberal education, preparing graduates for a lifetime of continuous learning.
  • 💼 The speaker argues that a liberal education is not just about getting a job, but also about enriching life and contributing to society as a whole.
  • 🌟 The script concludes by celebrating the liberal arts as a pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, a fundamental human endeavor that distinguishes us from other species.

Q & A

  • What was the main realization President Kennedy had after his trip to Europe?

    -President Kennedy realized that he was primarily seen as the man who accompanied Jacqueline Kennedy to Europe and spoke after Barbara Walters, rather than for his political or diplomatic efforts.

  • What significant event in the speaker's personal life is mentioned in relation to Sarah Lawrence College?

    -The speaker's wife, Paula, received her master's in fine arts in creative writing from Sarah Lawrence College in 2010.

  • Who gave the commencement speech at Sarah Lawrence College in 2010, and what significant career decision did she discuss?

    -Julianna Margulies gave the commencement speech in 2010, and she discussed her decision to turn down a $27 million TV contract to pursue off-Broadway shows in New York.

  • What is the connection between Nadia Ramon, a graduating student, and the Khan Academy?

    -Nadia Ramon is the cousin of Sal Khan, the founder of Khan Academy. Her request for help with math led to the creation of the online educational platform.

  • Why is the speaker critical of the current trend to devalue liberal arts education?

    -The speaker believes that liberal arts education is essential as it teaches critical skills such as writing, speaking, and learning, and contributes to a well-rounded individual capable of adapting to various professions and life's demands.

  • What did the speaker learn about his own passion during his first year at Yale?

    -The speaker discovered his passion for history, English, politics, and economics after taking a course on the history of the Cold War, which woke him up to his true interests.

  • What is the definition of a liberal education according to Cardinal Newman?

    -Cardinal Newman defined a liberal education as a broad exposure to the outlines of knowledge for its own sake, rather than to acquire skills for a specific trade or job.

  • How does the speaker describe the importance of writing in a liberal education?

    -The speaker emphasizes that writing in a liberal education is crucial as it teaches students to clarify their thoughts, articulate their ideas clearly, and express themselves effectively.

  • What is the significance of the ability to speak and articulate one's thoughts in a liberal education?

    -The ability to speak and articulate thoughts is significant in a liberal education because it prepares students for professional settings where they need to present their analysis and conclusions effectively.

  • How does the speaker argue that a liberal education prepares individuals for lifelong learning?

    -The speaker argues that a liberal education teaches students how to acquire knowledge, read critically, find new sources, and evaluate information, which are skills essential for continuous learning throughout their lives.

  • What role does the speaker believe a liberal education plays in enriching one's personal life?

    -The speaker believes that a liberal education enriches personal life by fostering an appreciation for great literature, history, art, architecture, and music, which contribute to a more fulfilling and cultured life experience.

  • Why is a liberal education considered essential for being a good citizen according to the speaker?

    -A liberal education is considered essential for being a good citizen because it frees the mind from dogma and constraints, promoting an exercise in freedom that aligns with the values of democracy and encourages critical thinking and open-mindedness.

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関連タグ
Liberal ArtsEducational ValuePersonal GrowthProfessional SkillsCultural EnrichmentHistorical PerspectiveCritical ThinkingEffective CommunicationLifelong LearningHuman SpiritKnowledge Pursuit
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