Education Quote by James Truslow Adams
““There are obviously two educations. One should teach us how to make a living and the other how to live. Surely these should never be confused in the mind of any man who has the slightest inkling of what culture is. For most of us it is essential that we should make a living...In the complications of modern life and with our increased accumulation of knowledge, it doubtless helps greatly to compress some years of experience into far fewer years by studying for a particular trade or profession in an institution; but that fact should not blind us to another—namely, that in so doing we are learning a trade or a profession, but are not getting a liberal education as human beings.””
About This Quote
The passage distinguishes practical vocational training from a liberal education, warning that focusing solely on earning skills can neglect broader cultural and human development.
In simple terms: Work skills ≠ cultural education.
Key Takeaway
Balance vocational and liberal learning.
Themes
education
culture
vocational
liberal arts
knowledge
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
essay excerpt
philosophical observation
When to use this quote
- career counseling
- university curriculum design
Key Concepts
holistic development
cultural literacy
Practical Applications
- Integrate humanities into technical programs
- Promote lifelong learning beyond job skills
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions blend practical and liberal studies?
- What risks arise from neglecting cultural education?
A Different Perspective
May overstate a strict dichotomy between work and culture.
