Posted by
voice_of_reason on Friday, March 16, 2007 6:24:13 PM
Our politicians like to 'apologize' publicly for systemic failures made by previous generations. I call them Crocodile Apologies, because they are usually accompanied by crocodile tears.
Usually politicians apologize to television cameras for mistakes that were made many generations ago. For example, it is now en vogue to apologize for slavery. While slavery is a blot on our national historical conscience, there are no Americans alive today who are guilty of practicing slavery.
How about a big real apology for screwing up education from the 1950s onwards? Now that is a mistake that continues to fester, so real, living Americans are involved. And, there is certainly plenty of culpability to go around!
Is there a presidential candidate (on either side) who would like to get 'first water' by being the first to apologize for getting the Govt mired into ownership of schools?
It is very simple: despite our best intentions, we messed up!
Of course there were disparities, unequal outcomes, unfairness etc. But, as a result of our 'solution', the Govt:
* builds, owns and operates schools
* sets curriculum
* hires teachers, administrators, staff
* negotiates salaries with unions
* raises taxes
Results?
* more 'unequal outcomes', unfairness
* high costs that outpace inflation
* low (and steadily worsening) quality
Imagine what might have transpired if the 'reformers' of the 1950s and 1960s had mandated Govt vouchers (only for the needy) - and nothing else!