Using David Brooks And Other Sources To Explore College

Using David Brooks and other sources to explore college's three purposes: Cognitive,

The assignment requires an analytical essay that discusses the three primary purposes of college—Cognitive, Commercial, and Moral—by utilizing David Brooks's perspectives along with other scholarly and credible sources. Furthermore, the essay should examine how Humboldt University endeavors to fulfill each of these purposes for students. An additional critical component involves assessing the current relevance of college education, questioning whether the traditional approach needs rethinking or alteration, and outlining personal viewpoints on the usefulness of college today. The paper must be approximately five pages long, include citations from at least four sources—including David Brooks—and adhere to MLA citation standards.

Paper For Above instruction

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, colleges serve multifaceted roles that extend beyond mere knowledge transmission. Understanding these roles is essential for evaluating the relevance and efficacy of higher education. The three principal purposes of college—cognitive, commercial, and moral—highlight the diverse functions institutions are intended to fulfill in shaping well-rounded individuals equipped for life and work. This essay explores these purposes through the lens of David Brooks’s insights, supplemented by other scholarly perspectives, and examines how Humboldt University aims to realize each purpose. Additionally, it critically interrogates whether the traditional college model remains useful or requires an overhaul to meet contemporary societal needs.

The Cognitive Purpose

The cognitive purpose of college is primarily centered on fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, creativity, and a broad base of knowledge. David Brooks emphasizes that universities should cultivate "the capacity to learn, adapt, and think critically" (Brooks, 2023). In his essay “Becoming a Real Person,” Brooks advocates for education that develops the person beyond mere memorization, emphasizing the importance of understanding complex ideas and applying knowledge practically. Humboldt University, founded in 1810, was among the earliest institutions designed to promote the free development of talents and critical inquiry, reflecting this cognitive purpose through its emphasis on research, liberal arts education, and intellectual freedom. Currently, Humboldt continues to emphasize inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to question assumptions and engage in collaborative research, thereby fostering cognitive growth vital for academic and personal development.

The Commercial Purpose

The commercial purpose pertains to preparing students for the job market, equipping them with the skills and credentials necessary for economic success. This instrumental view is often critiqued for reducing higher education merely to a means of securing employment. However, as Pietro Savo highlights, education contributes to "making you think differently" and adapting to economic demands (Savo, 2022). Humboldt University responds to this purpose by integrating vocational training with academic programs, fostering entrepreneurial skills, and establishing partnerships with industries to enhance employability. The university’s career services and internship programs exemplify its commitment to ensuring students are job-ready upon graduation. Nonetheless, critics question whether this utilitarian focus dilutes the transformative potential of higher education, risking prioritizing immediate economic gains over broader intellectual and ethical development.

The Moral Purpose

The moral purpose involves cultivating ethical values, civic responsibility, and moral judgment. Education is viewed as a tool for fostering good citizens capable of contributing positively to society. Brooks articulates that colleges should nurture integrity and moral reasoning, emphasizing the importance of moral education alongside intellectual pursuits (Brooks, 2023). Humboldt University embodies this purpose through its commitment to social justice, community service, and fostering an inclusive environment that promotes moral development. Its diverse student body and emphasis on civic engagement initiatives demonstrate efforts to instill moral consciousness. Furthermore, includes programs that encourage ethical reflection, preparing students not only for careers but also for meaningful civic participation and moral decision-making.

Evaluating the Relevance of College Today

Given these three purposes, a pertinent question arises: is the traditional college model still useful? With rising tuition fees, student debt burdens, and evolving job market demands, critics argue that higher education often falls short of delivering on its promises. Dale Stephens provocatively asks whether college is necessary for success today, asserting that alternative pathways such as apprenticeships, online learning, and entrepreneurship can be equally valuable (Stephens, 2021). Personally, I believe that college remains relevant if it adapts to these changing conditions by focusing more on practical skills, ethical development, and fostering innovative thinking rather than solely on credentialing. The core functions of cognitive, moral, and even commercial purposes remain essential, but their implementation should evolve to meet 21st-century needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, colleges serve vital roles in developing the mind, preparing individuals for careers, and cultivating ethical citizens. Humboldt University demonstrates a commitment to fulfilling these purposes through its rich history of fostering inquiry, aligning education with labor market needs, and promoting civic responsibility. However, the question of whether the current higher education system remains fit for purpose is pressing. The landscape of work, technology, and societal values necessitates a reevaluation of our approach to college. I advocate for a more integrated model that emphasizes critical thinking, ethical development, and practical skills—ensuring college continues to serve as a vital institution in shaping individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society in a rapidly changing world.

References

• Brooks, David. “Becoming a Real Person.” 2023.
• Savo, Pietro. “Education Does Not Make You Smarter. It Makes You Think Differently.” 2022.
• Conley, Dalton. “When Roommates Were Random.” 2020.
• Stephens, Dale. “Do You Really Have to Go to College?” 2021.
• Humboldt University Official Website. “Mission and Vision.” 2023.
• Bowen, William G. “Higher Education in America.” 2013.
• Arum, Richard, and Josipa Roksa. “Academically Adrift.” 2011.
• Gordon, Peter. “The Purpose of Higher Education.” Journal of Higher Education, 2017.
• Levine, Arnold. “The Future of Higher Education.” 2019.
• Giroux, Henry A. “Education and the Crisis of Democracy.” 2006.