In the latest episode of Liberty and Learning, Mark Levin engages in a deep and insightful dialogue with Dr. Larry Arnn, president of Hillsdale College, about the complexities of the Department of Education and its implications on American education. The conversation begins with a historical overview of the Department of Education, established in 1978, and its evolution into a powerful central authority that wields significant influence over educational policies across the nation.
Levin and Arnn discuss how the federal government has used its financial resources to impose conditions on states and educational institutions, steering them towards uniformity and compliance with federal regulations. This centralization of education, they argue, undermines the fundamental principles of self-governance and local control that are essential to a thriving democracy.
A significant focus of the episode is the Northwest Ordinance of 1787, a landmark piece of legislation that set the framework for how new territories would be governed and emphasized the importance of education. Arnn highlights the moral foundation laid out in the Ordinance, which states that ‘religion, morality, and knowledge being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall ever be encouraged.’ This perspective on education as a moral imperative contrasts sharply with the current bureaucratic approach that often prioritizes compliance over character development.
As the discussion unfolds, Levin and Arnn reflect on the pressing need for educational reform that returns power to local communities, allowing parents, teachers, and students to shape their educational experiences. They advocate for a system that encourages competition among states, fostering innovation and accountability in education, rather than a one-size-fits-all federal mandate.
Looking ahead, the episode also touches on the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States and the importance of celebrating the principles laid out in the Declaration of Independence. Levin and Arnn emphasize that understanding and teaching these foundational documents is crucial for the next generation, as they embody the ideals of freedom and self-governance that continue to resonate today.
To learn more about Hillsdale College, go to https://www.hillsdale.edu/
The podcast for this show can be streamed or downloaded from the Audio Rewind page.