Should College Be Free?

Summary

Jacob Clifford, an economics educator, argues against free college tuition, presenting five reasons. He discusses the opportunity cost of taxpayer money, questions the allocation of funds to higher education over other societal needs, and points out that free tuition disproportionately benefits the wealthy. Clifford also addresses the potential for increased competition in the job market if college were free, suggesting it would devalue degrees. He criticizes the outdated university model, advocating for a more efficient and relevant education system. Lastly, he calls for a student-led revolution to demand change in the current higher education structure.

Takeaways

• 💼 College tuition should not be free as it would be funded by taxpayers and has opportunity costs.
• 💰 Investing in college education is good, but it might not be the best use of scarce resources to improve society.
• 🏫 Money spent on college could be better allocated to earlier education stages, such as for 10-year-olds or in failing schools.
• 📈 Free college tuition would disproportionately benefit the upper and middle classes rather than the poor.
• 🎓 If college were free, it would likely increase competition in the job market, reducing the value of a college degree.
• 📚 The current university system is outdated, with mandatory classes and lectures that may not be relevant or useful.
• 🌐 With the internet, there are alternative, often cheaper or free, ways to learn that do not require traditional college tuition.
• 🚫 Students are overpaying for an education system that does not necessarily meet their needs or prepare them for the job market.
• 🔍 Students should demand a better education product that is aligned with their interests and job market requirements.
• 💪 Change in the education system needs to come from students themselves, as other stakeholders may not have the incentive to do so.

Q & A

Why does Jacob Clifford argue against free college tuition for everyone?

Jacob Clifford argues that free college tuition for everyone may not be the best use of resources. He believes it would benefit the upper and middle classes more than the poor, who might not need the financial aid as much.

What is Clifford's view on the opportunity cost of paying for college tuition?

Clifford believes that the opportunity cost of paying for everyone's college tuition is high. He suggests that the money could be better spent on other educational stages, such as improving early education for impoverished children.

How does Clifford respond to the argument that free college would help the poor?

Clifford acknowledges that making college free would help some poor students, but he argues that it would benefit the upper and middle classes more since they disproportionately consume higher education.

What does Clifford mean by saying that a college diploma could become the 'new high school diploma'?

He suggests that if college becomes free and more accessible, the value of a college diploma might decrease, as it would no longer set individuals apart in the job market. This could lead to increased competition for jobs requiring further qualifications.

Why does Clifford believe the current higher education system is outdated?

Clifford argues that the higher education system has remained largely unchanged for centuries and that it's inefficient and overpriced. He points out that much of the knowledge taught in universities can be accessed online for free or at a lower cost.

What alternative methods of education does Clifford suggest?

Clifford suggests exploring online education platforms like YouTube or language learning tools like Rosetta Stone. He advocates for a streamlined education system that focuses only on relevant subjects and is more aligned with job market demands.

Why does Clifford criticize both students and the government in regard to the current education system?

Clifford criticizes students for not demanding change and the government for perpetuating the current system by increasing funding without addressing its inefficiencies. He believes both parties are maintaining an archaic system rather than innovating.

What are Clifford's views on using taxpayer money for free college tuition?

Clifford argues that using taxpayer money for free college tuition is not the most effective way to improve society. He believes the funds could be better allocated, such as investing in early education rather than providing free college for all.

What does Clifford propose as the best way for students to address their frustrations with the education system?

Clifford suggests that students should demand a better product and more relevant education. He encourages them to form a coalition and push for change, rather than accepting the status quo or relying on the government to fix the system.

What actions does Clifford suggest to start a movement for change in the education system?

Clifford encourages viewers to share his video, raise awareness, and create a coalition to demand changes in the education system. He believes that change needs to start from the students themselves rather than waiting for external forces to act.