Of course, a better education in the natural sciences certainly helps to some extent. Similarly, the ability to navigate the complex world of modern media and social networks is useful. But science is complex, and none of us can become an epidemiologist, virologist, climate scientist, or social psychologist in a few hours or even days, so sooner or later we have to rely on what experts in the relevant fields say. However, in a polluted epistemic environment, identifying experts is difficult. Philosophers and enthusiasts of critical thinking usually point out that people should learn critical thinking skills – the ability to recognise flawed arguments. Of course, to some extent they certainly are beneficial, yet studies show that the effect of such education is small and short-lived.
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Concern about gaps in the skills and knowledge of our pupils is voiced quite widely from time to time. Unfortunately, only when someone from outside Latvia has concluded as much. Why is that?
There is a political tendency to be busy, to invest, to make promises, but not to think about the results
If you have little knowledge yourself, you do not even know how or what you do not know...
A smart society is not always desirable or welcome
Many interests swirl around education. A "good result" is rarely mentioned among them
