Reply to Jerry K on Schools

Hi Jerry.  Yes, it is more than a little scary how much teachers and schools can impact young minds.  I happen to believe that much (most?) important basic psychological formations and mechanisms are done, done!, by age 2.  Still, there is a lot of knowledge to be added to the machine - knowledge which will come from our environment.  I went to 10 different schools before I graduated High School (Army brat).  They were all different.  Some great teachers and some not so great.  They all impacted me in ways I am aware of and ways which I am not aware of, but which still impact my actions.  I do believe that many students believe what they are told and do not challenge.  I had a chat with a student in another class yesterday and said she needs to challenge the author of her text if she does not agree with something.  But, that her challenge should not just be a rant.  It should be a well-argued response.  Who knows?  She might be the next "authority."  : )  Thanks!  Todd