Summary Of Robert Harris The Idea Of University Education

Robert Harris, a renowned writer and experienced professor, published “On the Purpose of a Liberal Art Education” in 1991. He was astounded by how many students mumbled about a generalized education plan; therefore, he need to explain why a general education not only gives a first-year student a foundation for later learning but also improves a student’s life. Before Harris could write his paper, he investigated the claim; thus, Newman’s The Idea of University shaped Harris's opinion on a liberal education. Newman and Harris both agree that a generalized education helps train the mind to see culture in every situation. Moreover, this article states that a liberal arts education will teach students how to think, how to learn, how to see the world as a whole, how to become good teachers, and how to be happier.

First of all, Harris outlines that a generalized education teaches students how to think. Harris argues that the mind is like a muscle; hence, the more the mind works the stronger it will become. In other words, Harris is observing that knowing a little on many broad subjects is better than only knowing a great deal on a single subject; an example is studying music when a student is a Political Science major. As a result of the music class, scholars’ brains will be able to adapt to future jobs with ease. Moreover, Harris reasons that by

Harris believes that a liberal arts education causes students to gain characteristics that they might not obtain otherwise. His thoughts on the subject are reflected well through Newman's lecture: "A habit of mind," according to Newman, "is formed which lasts throughout life of which the attributes are, freedom, equitableness, calmness, moderation, and wisdom." Harris and Newman both emphasize that knowledge is power, power is freedom, and through freedom students can obtain