Cao 1

Nancy Cao
Professor Masulit
Ethnic Studies 21
11 September 2016
What does Society need from Higher Education?
In David R. Pierce's and Robert H. Atwell's What does a Society need from Higher
Education?, both authors have different arguments but are on similar sides of the spectrum.
Pierce argues that higher education cannot solve all of the world's problems; however, it can be
used as an effective tool and resource to provide research and information. He states that our
society is drifting away from a "manufacturing and industrial economy to a service and
information economy" which means that people will need more than a high school education
(121). There is a demand for people with degrees, and this raises society's standard for education.
Eventually, there will be an abundance of people with higher education, and this can benefit
society, the government, and the economy. In Atwell's paper, he explains that higher education
should teach students how to be citizens. This means that students will understand their power as
citizens in a democracy; there is no democracy without the people. Higher education allows
people to be more wise and knowledgeable about world issues, and encourages people to
participate in order to address and change social, economic, or government issues. Colleges and
universities give students a place to voice their opinions on social issues, and usually their voices
are heard. Social changes have been made by students in higher education at colleges and
universities. Both writers see higher education as a resource to educate the people, and in return
it will make society a better place. People will be much more well-informed and socially
conscious which will make a less ignorant and hateful world.

Cao 2
I agree with both authors; I think that higher education can be used as a resource to
impact society. Atwell utilizes Vietnam as an example to explain how colleges and universities
can impact the nation's decision. Many people supported the war and believed in the
Communism Domino Effect. Eventually, people saw the flaws in war and vocalized their
opinion. The many campus protests against the Vietnam War changed the nation's view toward
war. Overall, higher education is a place to learn multiple perspectives besides one's own bias; it
pops people's ignorant bubble. There is no such thing as "staying in your lane" in college.
Opinions will be challenged, debates will be argued, and evidence will be revealed and disprove
personal beliefs and judgment. Higher education will challenge people and effect their personal
development in a good way. People will evolve into smarter, well-rounded, and educated
citizens. This will trickle down onto future generations and make a better society.