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Acquisition Quote by Bertrand Russell

“It is one of the defects of modern higher education that it has become too much a training in the acquisition of certain kinds of skill, and too little an enlargement of the mind and heart by an impartial survey of the world.” quote by Bertrand Russell
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““It is one of the defects of modern higher education that it has become too much a training in the acquisition of certain kinds of skill, and too little an enlargement of the mind and heart by an impartial survey of the world.””

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Essay: Education and the Mind, 1949

Higher education often overemphasizes technical skill at the expense of broad, humane understanding.

In simple terms: Schools focus on skills, not the mind.

Key Takeaway

Balance skill training with liberal learning.

Themes

education skill vs. wisdom humanities

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • curriculum design
  • teacher training
  • student self‑study
  • public policy

Key Concepts

critical thinking holistic development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can curricula foster both competence and compassion?
  • What role should the humanities play in modern universities?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on skills can limit creativity and empathy.

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