Martin Luther King Jr's Function of Education
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively, and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” –Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr was born in Atlanta, Georgia on January 15th, 1929. He is most well-known for his “I Have a Dream” speech at the Lincoln Memorial during his March on Washington. Although that was no small feat, he accomplished so much more as a Civil Rights leader. The strength of his impact on the nation motivated the passing of the Civil Rights Act. His humanitarian accomplishments even earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. Sadly, on April 4th of 1968, he was assassinated by James Earl Ray at a motel he was staying at in Memphis, Tennessee. (Lewis)
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively, and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” –Martin Luther King Jr. Many might assume that getting an education is learning specific subjects in a classroom setting. While that is an important component, it is not that alone that makes us successful members of society. Education is also an important way to build character. It is important to learn patience, understanding, discipline, and compassion for the world around you. To utilize this kind of knowledge; that is what makes a successful person. Martin Luther King Jr is a perfect example of this. He received a doctorate from Boston University and he was a man of great character. His character was one that fought hatred with love. While some wanted to take a more radical approach to achieving civil rights, Dr. King remained peaceful and hopeful of a day that everybody would be united as “brothers.” Dr. King’s education took him far but it was his character that made people listen and respect him. With his intelligence and character, Dr. King was able to change America. (Lewis)
After writing about Dr. King, it is hard to make any comparison with my own life. He accomplished so much and I am still in the learning process. One of the reasons I love school though, is that I learn every day about more than just specific subjects. I get to learn about people and not only through lessons, but through interaction. I’ve been able to see many different types of character at TNCC. In this environment it is very important how you treat others and the level of respect that you have; not only for your classmates, but for your professors too. From what I have observed, if you are of poor character here, you won’t reach your education goals. This school is a community and for the benefit of our education, we all have to work together.
Works Cited
Lewis, David L. "Martin Luther King, Jr." Encyclopedia Britannica
Online .Encyclopedia Britannica Inc., 2016. Web. 03 Feb. 2016 <http://www.britannica.com/biography/Martin-Luther-King-Jr>.
