The New Enlightenment

A Holistic Vision for Education, Innovation, and Inclusive Governance in the United States

Weapons not food, not homes, not shoes
Not need, just feed the war cannibal animal
I walk the corner to the rubble that used to be a library
Line up to the mind cemetery now
What we don't know keeps the contracts alive and movin'
They don't gotta burn the books they just remove 'em
While arms warehouses fill as quick as the cells
Rally 'round the family, pockets full of shells

Bulls on Parade, Rage Against the Machine

It’s a bit too on the nose to begin an essay with a quote from Rage Against the Machine. It comes off like a freshman in high school who just spent the last three hours on Che Guevara’s Wikipedia page and now thinks they’re going to overthrow the United States government via guerilla warfare. But I stand by the quote, not because I expect people to read this and then throw a few molotovs through their local post office (please don’t do that), but because we’ve been talking about the dumbing down of America via censorship and disguised-theocracy well before Bulls on Parade came out almost 30 years ago. And nothing has changed. In fact, one could argue, censorship has increased in the past 30 years. There were more than 3,300 book bans in the United States last year alone, while the 90s saw an average of 600 per year. (It should be noted that 40% of the book bans in 2023 came from Florida alone, but that still leaves almost 2,000 bans throughout the rest of the country.)

As has been proven time and again, the negatives of banning books are profound and wide-reaching. Suppressing ideas, stifling creativity, limiting knowledge, and undermining freedom of speech are all consequences that hinder intellectual and societal progress. Instead of resorting to censorship, society should embrace the power of dialogue, critical thinking, and education to address concerns about potentially harmful content. A commitment to these principles will foster a more resilient and informed society that values the importance of diverse perspectives and the freedom to explore them within the pages of literature.

This brings me to an idea I’ve been mulling over since George W. Bush was first in office, and it became apparent that we are not a nation that celebrates intelligence. The United States, despite its vast intellectual resources and renowned educational institutions, often finds itself undervaluing intelligence in various aspects of society. While the country places a significant emphasis on certain forms of achievement, such as athletic prowess or entrepreneurial success, the appreciation for intellectual pursuits sometimes takes a backseat. In some cases, anti-intellectual sentiments persist, with a skepticism towards experts and a tendency to dismiss rigorous research in favor of anecdotal or emotionally driven narratives. (See also: Trump supporters who habitually vote against their best interests.) This undervaluation is reflected in educational funding disparities, where sports programs may receive more attention and resources than academic initiatives. Furthermore, popular culture often glorifies anti-intellectualism, contributing to a climate where intellectual achievements are not always celebrated or prioritized. This undervaluation of intelligence can hinder the nation's progress in addressing complex challenges, as a society that truly appreciates and fosters intelligence is better equipped to navigate the intricacies of a rapidly evolving world.

If the United States fails to increase funding for education substantially, the nation risks falling behind in an increasingly competitive global landscape. Education serves as the bedrock for a skilled and innovative workforce, essential for maintaining economic competitiveness and technological advancement. Inadequate funding can lead to outdated infrastructure, larger class sizes, and diminished resources, all of which compromise the quality of education. A well-educated populace is crucial for fostering critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability, traits that are imperative for addressing complex challenges in the 21st century. Other nations are prioritizing education by investing heavily in research, technology, and teacher training, positioning themselves to excel in emerging fields. Without a comparable commitment, the United States may struggle to produce the talent and expertise needed to drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress. And with college tuition rates increasing far and beyond the rate of inflation, increased investment in education is not just an investment in individuals but an investment in the nation's future prosperity and global standing.

Welcome to the New Enlightenment, and movement that takes its name and basic themes from the Age of Enlightenment from the 17th and 18th centuries. This idea proposes a vast increase in educational investment throughout the United States in an effort to not only maintain our standing as a global powerhouse, but to position us to take giant leaps forward in technology. In the intricate tapestry of the United States' historical evolution, the emergence of a New Enlightenment beckons as a profound catalyst for societal metamorphosis. This movement aspires not merely to illuminate the corridors of knowledge but to forge a path toward inclusive prosperity, placing education at its core. This posits an expansive vision for the New Enlightenment, underscoring the imperative to invest comprehensively in education, particularly in underprivileged communities. It advocates for a strategic focus on STEM disciplines, envisions a recalibration of budgetary allocations, and underscores the importance of fostering inclusive governance grounded in reason and secular principles.

Confused? Intrigued? Let’s take this step-by-step.

I. The Imperative of Investing in Education:

The United States, heralded as a beacon of opportunity and progress, grapples with a glaring issue that undermines the very foundation of its promise – the profound disparity in educational funding across the nation. Let’s take a look at the multifaceted nature of educational funding inequities, exploring the root causes, consequences, and proposing potential avenues for redress to ensure that every student, regardless of their zip code, has access to a quality education.

I. The Landscape of Educational Funding Disparities:

1. Resource Allocation Discrepancies: Across states, regions, and even within districts, there exists a disconcerting variance in the allocation of educational resources. Factors such as local property taxes, state funding formulas, and federal contributions contribute to a landscape where affluent areas often boast well-equipped schools while disadvantaged communities grapple with insufficient resources.

2. Impact on Quality of Education: The consequences of disparate funding are starkly evident in the quality of education provided. Schools in economically disadvantaged areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining qualified teachers, maintaining updated resources, and offering diverse extracurricular activities. Consequently, students in these areas are disproportionately disadvantaged in terms of educational opportunities.

II. Root Causes of Educational Funding Disparities:

1. Reliance on Property Taxes: The heavy reliance on local property taxes to fund schools perpetuates inequality. Communities with high property values can generate more revenue for schools, leading to a cycle where affluent areas perpetually benefit from superior educational resources.

2. State Funding Formulas: The variations in state funding formulas further exacerbate disparities. Some states allocate more resources to education based on per-pupil funding, while others may distribute funds based on district characteristics, leading to discrepancies that disproportionately impact schools in economically marginalized areas.

III. Consequences of Educational Funding Disparities:

1. Academic Achievement Gaps: Educational funding disparities contribute significantly to persistent academic achievement gaps. Students in underfunded schools often face challenges in accessing advanced coursework, experienced teachers, and essential support services, amplifying inequalities in academic outcomes.

2. Social and Economic Implications: The consequences extend beyond the classroom, influencing social and economic mobility. Students in well-funded schools are better positioned to access higher education and secure lucrative opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty in communities with inadequate educational resources.

IV. Addressing Educational Funding Disparities:

1. Equitable Funding Models: Implementing equitable funding models that prioritize the needs of economically disadvantaged communities is essential. States must reevaluate funding formulas to ensure that resources are allocated based on the actual needs of schools rather than perpetuating existing inequalities.

2. Federal Intervention and Investment: Federal intervention and increased investment in education can play a pivotal role in mitigating funding disparities. By targeting resources toward schools and districts with the greatest need, the federal government can contribute to creating a more level playing field.

V. The New Enlightenment Solution:

The educational funding disparities in the United States pose a formidable challenge to the nation's commitment to equal opportunity and upward mobility. Addressing these disparities requires a collective effort at the local, state, and federal levels. By embracing equitable funding models, reevaluating tax structures, and prioritizing the educational needs of the most vulnerable communities, the United States can move towards a future where every student has access to a quality education, irrespective of their socioeconomic background. Bridging the gulf in educational funding is not just a matter of educational equity but an investment in the nation's future prosperity and societal well-being.

1. Equity in Education: The New Enlightenment movement recognizes the systemic inequities pervading the educational landscape. Urgent and targeted investments in underfunded schools are paramount to dismantling barriers to knowledge access, empowering individuals irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds.

2. STEM Education for National Advancement: An unwavering commitment to STEM education lies at the nucleus of the New Enlightenment. Recognizing the pivotal role of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in shaping the future, strategic investments are advocated to cultivate an agile, innovative workforce that can navigate the challenges of an ever-evolving global landscape.

II. Reprioritizing Budgets for Education:

This is all fine and dandy, and no one in their right mind would argue against thoroughly funding schools. As long as it doesn’t increase taxes. So, if we can’t increase taxes, because God forbid we put our own money toward helping others and/or place politicians in dubious positions in which they might anger their constituents, where do we get the funds? Well, if you hate the raised taxes idea, you’re really going to hate this next part: let’s grab some cash from the military.

The United States stands as the world's preeminent military power, exemplified by its robust defense capabilities and substantial financial commitment to national security. Let’s take a look at the complex jigsaw puzzle of military funding in the United States, examining the reasons behind its substantial budget, comparing it to other nations, and contemplating the implications of such spending in the pursuit of global stability.

I. The United States Military Budget: A Comprehensive Overview:

1. Historical Context: The United States has a long-standing tradition of maintaining a formidable military force, a commitment rooted in historical events like World War II and the Cold War. The perceived need for a military capable of safeguarding national interests and projecting power globally has resulted in substantial defense budgets.

2. Size and Scale: The U.S. military budget is the largest in the world by a considerable margin. It encompasses expenditures on personnel, equipment, research and development, and operational costs. The sheer size and scale of this budget contribute significantly to the nation's ability to maintain a technologically advanced and versatile military force.

II. Comparative Analysis with Other Nations:

1. The Global Perspective: While the United States allocates a substantial portion of its budget to defense, it is crucial to compare these figures on a global scale. Several countries, including China and Russia, allocate significant resources to their militaries. Understanding these comparisons offers insights into the geopolitical landscape and potential threats.

2. NATO Alliances and Commitments: The United States' role as a leading member of NATO necessitates a robust military budget to fulfill its collective defense commitments. However, the burden-sharing within the alliance has been a topic of debate, with some arguing for a more equitable distribution of defense expenditures among member nations.

III. The Implications of High Military Spending:

1. National Security and Technological Advancements: The substantial military budget enables the United States to maintain a technological edge, investing in research and development to stay ahead in areas such as cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, and advanced weaponry. This technological prowess is seen as a deterrent to potential adversaries.

2. Economic and Social Trade-Offs: Critics argue that the immense military budget comes at the expense of other vital sectors, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The debate centers on finding a balance that ensures national security without compromising the well-being and advancement of society.

IV. The Quest for Global Stability:

1. Diplomacy and Soft Power: While a robust military is an essential component of national security, the pursuit of global stability also requires effective diplomacy and the projection of soft power. Investments in diplomacy and international cooperation can complement military capabilities in addressing complex global challenges.

2. Reevaluating Priorities: The United States faces evolving threats, including cyber warfare, pandemics, and climate change. A comprehensive review of priorities may be necessary to reallocate resources effectively, ensuring that the military budget aligns with contemporary security challenges.

V. The New Enlightenment Solution:

The United States' substantial military budget has played a pivotal role in maintaining national security and global stability. However, in a rapidly changing world, a nuanced approach is imperative. Striking a balance between military preparedness, diplomatic efforts, and addressing societal needs is key to ensuring a secure and prosperous future. As the United States navigates its role in the global arena, a thoughtful examination of military spending and its implications becomes paramount in fostering a world characterized by peace, cooperation, and shared security.

1. Military Spending Reallocation: Acknowledging the imperative of a robust national defense, the New Enlightenment movement proposes a judicious reallocation of financial resources. Redirecting funds from exorbitant military expenditures to education signifies a commitment to cultivating the nation's human capital as a strategic asset, ensuring both security and societal advancement.

2. Maintaining Military Supremacy: A delicate equilibrium is sought in the recalibration process, emphasizing that a redirection of funds should not compromise the United States' position as the global vanguard in military capabilities. The movement advocates for a nuanced approach that prioritizes national security without sacrificing investments crucial for the nation's intellectual and technological ascendancy.

III. Inclusive Governance and Secular Decision-Making:

Once funding is secured, the next and equally almost insurmountable hurdle is to sidestep religion. Despite what the talking heads on Fox News might tell you, we remain a non-theistic nation. But, the relationship between religion and intellectual advancement has been a complex and nuanced aspect of American society. While the United States is celebrated for its diverse tapestry of beliefs and practices, there exists a discourse surrounding the impact of religion on intellectual progress. Let’s take a look at the intersections between religion and intellectual advancement, delving into historical contexts, societal implications, and the nuanced balance between faith and the pursuit of knowledge.

I. Historical Perspectives on Religion and Intellectual Advancement:

1. Early Tensions and Harmonies: The founding of the United States saw a delicate interplay between religious values and intellectual pursuits. Early educational institutions were often rooted in religious foundations, with faith guiding scholarship. However, tensions emerged as Enlightenment ideals and scientific discoveries challenged dogmatic perspectives.

2. Religious Institutions and Educational Development: Throughout history, religious institutions have played a pivotal role in educational development. Many of the oldest universities in the United States were established with religious affiliations, contributing significantly to the country's intellectual landscape.

II. Challenges to Intellectual Advancement:

1. Opposition to Scientific Inquiry: Critics argue that certain religious beliefs, particularly those embracing literal interpretations of sacred texts, may hinder scientific inquiry. Instances of resistance to evolutionary theory or skepticism toward certain scientific advancements have been attributed to deeply held religious convictions.

2. Influence on Educational Curricula: In some cases, religious perspectives influence educational curricula, leading to debates about the inclusion or exclusion of certain scientific theories, historical narratives, or social issues. This influence can potentially limit the breadth of knowledge students are exposed to during their formative years.

III. Balance and Harmony:

1. Compatibility of Faith and Reason: Many proponents argue that faith and reason can coexist harmoniously. They emphasize that religion, far from being an obstacle, can inspire intellectual pursuits by providing a moral compass, ethical framework, and a sense of purpose that fosters a deeper understanding of the world.

2. Religious Contributions to Intellectual Discourse: Religious scholars and thinkers have made significant contributions to various intellectual disciplines. Theology, philosophy, and ethics have been enriched by religious perspectives, fostering a diverse and robust intellectual environment.

IV. Promoting Dialogue and Understanding:

1. Interfaith Dialogue: Encouraging open and respectful interfaith dialogue can bridge the gaps between different religious beliefs and the pursuit of knowledge. Emphasizing common values and shared goals can contribute to a more inclusive intellectual landscape.

2. Freedom of Belief and Academic Freedom: Upholding principles of freedom of belief and academic freedom is crucial. Ensuring that individuals can practice their faith freely while also fostering an environment where intellectual inquiry and diversity of thought are celebrated is essential.

V. The New Enlightenment Solution:

The relationship between religion and intellectual advancement in the United States is intricate and multifaceted. While historical tensions and challenges persist, the contemporary landscape offers dialogue, understanding, and collaboration opportunities. Balancing the tenets of faith with the pursuit of knowledge requires a nuanced approach that respects individual beliefs while fostering a culture of open inquiry. Ultimately, embracing diversity and facilitating respectful discourse can propel the United States toward a future where religion and intellectual advancement coexist synergistically, enriching the nation's cultural and intellectual tapestry.

1. Exclusion of Faith-Based Decision-Making: Central to the New Enlightenment is the unequivocal separation of religious institutions from the mechanisms of governance. Decisions of public import must be rooted in reason, evidence, and a commitment to the collective welfare, with faith-based perspectives having no undue influence in the formulation of policies.

2. Religious Freedom and Pluralism: The movement champions religious freedom as a cornerstone of a pluralistic society. Individuals are encouraged to practice their faith freely, insulated from governmental interference, fostering a diverse and inclusive milieu where varying beliefs coexist harmoniously, contributing collectively to the nation's socio-cultural and economic tapestry.

Conclusion:

Growing up, I remember seeing a bumper sticker that read, “I’d like to see the Air Force hold a bake sale the next time they need a fighter plane.” It does such a wonderful job of distilling what’s wrong with America. Our values and resources are too deeply entrenched in the strength of our war machine rather than the pursuit of intellectual progress. In contemplating the contours of the New Enlightenment movement, the vision that emerges is one of transformative societal evolution. By placing education at the forefront, recalibrating budget priorities, and nurturing inclusive, secular governance, the United States can embark on a monumental journey toward a future where enlightenment, justice, and prosperity converge. This expansive vision seeks to advance the nation and contribute to the global renaissance, affirming the United States' enduring commitment to progress, knowledge, and inclusive ideals.