Article #168 - Education

A question having been introduced relative to confining all Questions & Essays &c to scientific subjects.

            Two answers have been given & thinking justice has not yet been done the subject I propose submitting a few remarks in reference to it, and the last answer is the object of Lyceums is mutual improvement & the acquisition of knowledge it follows as a selfevident truth the field of investigation should be equally extensive. In order that we should become interested in our

Essays &c it is expedient that each should have the privilege of embracing the subjects in which they would be the most interested. In accordance with the motto “Free thought free speech free men” In the answer alluded to it is intimated that the introduction of some subjects in reference to which persons think and act differently & in the discussion of which they would be governed more by prejudice than reason would be productive of no good & should be avoided evidently alluding to the reform questions of the day. I believe if our object is to acquire knowledge we will be pleased to hear questions and discussions of this description. We have no interest in the matter except to arrive at truth and the acquisition of correct knowledge. This is one of the

means of acquiring it by hearing the views and sentiments of others differing from our own

I anticipate no improper feeling with such subjects even “Errors may be tolerated when Reason is left free to combat them.” I conceive man is morally bound to make use of every opportunity for improvement if he refuses to embrace them. Does it not render him culpable and his ignorance is no [?] play for pity or palliation.

            The child sent to school to acquire knowledge that would not enter the house but spend the day in recreation would be considered highly censurable & if he persisted in that course of conduct...

            Despots in every age have enjoined silence in reference to their actions, the man-stealer & the slave driver and all their accessories chime in amen to it. “Come cries the Lynch Lord hold your tongue for you are weak and I am strong?”...

            ...Those that are endeavoring to advocate the right are not afraid of agitation. The popular doctrine of quietude is in my judgment calculated to lull the consciences of the Wrong doer & to strengthen the chords of the oppressor...I conceive that study & investigation should be our motto. Ignorance & Error will vanish before it and knowledge & right will sit triumphant on their

Empire throne and the physical and moral happiness of the race be in the same ratio promoted.

                        E. P. Barnard