Critical response to idiot nation - Essay Example

CRITICAL RESPONSE TO “IDIOT NATION” Idiot nation, as written by Moore refutes the general perception that the United s has designed its education system to facilitate acquisition of quality knowledge. While the nation considers its education system as better that those of other countries, Moore argues that the American education system, to the contrary, produces idiots instead of intelligent individuals. A critical review of Moore’s opinion, and in comparison with the actual observation, validates the view that the system is not as good as it ought to be or even as is perceived by citizens.

The quality of the education system is for example poor in relation to standards in other countries. The fact that American college students cannot tackle mathematical concepts learnt at elementary levels in some countries is an indication that these other countries are equipping their students in a better way than the American system. The notion that American education system fails to motivate students into academic achievements is also true. No one can for example refute the fact that American students would prefer life outside school to learning.

Even in school, students are comfortable with, are more interested in extra curriculum activities than studies, and would be identified in peer discussions. As a result, time and effort for developing an intelligent nation is lost. Poor facilities that exist in schools also explain, to some extent, the lack of motivation in education because other social factors such as sports and entertainment have facilities that are more attractive than academic institutions (Moore). An opinion that America is an idiot nation is therefore valid because the country has failed to develop avenues for academic excellence.

Works citedMoore, Michael. Idiot Nation. New York, NY: Penguin, 2005. Print