The Value of Education

Use this forum to discuss the July 2019 Book of the month, "Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream" by Dr Frank L Douglas.
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NIRUPAMA JHA
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Re: The Value of Education

Post by NIRUPAMA JHA »

I think the author had a deep emphasis on education and his academic performance. He wanted to excel in his forte and always feel worthy and proud of himself.
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Post by Wanjugush »

I think the author realised from young age that only education will sethim free from hardship. To him, and I too think that education is vital.
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Post by FREDFDK »

The tried to make us understand the value of education. He focused on his education distinctions to inspire us to take education very serious. I don't think the author wanted to separate himself from others in the story by placing emphasis on his laureate.
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Post by Nerea »

On the latter question, I think the author was proud of his academic achievements and wanted to share his achievements with the readers as a living proof.
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Post by Erin »

Yes, there was a big focus on education. Education was key to what the author was able to accomplish in his life. I think he wanted to demonstrate that no matter where you start in life, you can achieve greatness with determination and the right education.
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Post by Juliet+1 »

I don't think the author was trying to set himself apart. He wanted others to understand the many values of education. Not only do you learn things that can help you to advance in life, but you also prove your intelligence and acquire credentials (degrees, certificates, etc.) that validate your abilities.
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Post by Scerakor »

The question ends up being a bit more, whether or not it was intentional. It is obvious that this was something that is treasured and valued, and therefore whether it is intentional or not, it will come out in his writing.
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Post by Nuel Ukah »

KristyKhem wrote: 02 Jul 2019, 21:07 The author seems to value education very much!

He wrote about how empowered he felt when he learned his father was a lawyer. He once mentioned that Auntie Gertrude showed him off to her customers because he was a 'bright boy'. He also stated that he achieved A's in every subject, he was offered free lessons because he was a promising student, and he topped the country in his exams. He even won a scholarship. In one instance, he voiced his discontent at not being recognized for placing in the top three at the Special Assembly.

Do you think there was a big focus on education? And do you think did the author wanted to set himself apart from others in his life by focusing so much on his academic achievements?
I don't think the author had that in mind. I think his point is that after all he went through, he still got educated and came out better, a success. There are many people who went through less than he did, but they didn't make it. Some may have committed suicide. I'm just happy for Dr. Douglas. Indeed, there is no excuse for anyone to fail.
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Post by Vickie Noel »

Yes, the focus on education was a huge one in order to stimulate hardwork and dedication in the readers to strive for excellence.
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Post by Falling4Ever »

This author really highlighted how important an education is in society now days.
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Post by kali09 »

Yes, I do think there was a focus on education, but I think that focus is warranted. The author clearly - and rightly - values a good education and the strength and empowerment it affords. I do not think the author wanted to set himself apart from other people. I think he merely wished to emphasize that an education opens doors and sets you up for success.
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Post by iced_sunshine »

I think Plato's saying that "Ignorance is the root and stem of all evil" still holds true today. I think the author definitely wanted to set himself apart from those in his life who had not received proper education. I think he wanted to see if it would improve his situation.
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Post by Felicity Granger »

The focus on education is more of a culture thing, in my opinion. In the Caribbean, 'bright boy' or sometimes even 'sparks' is something you hear a lot. Children aren't satisfied with being placed third, which is an achievement in and of itself, as the importance of education is something that's drilled into us from an early age. We often hear that we won't make it anywhere in life without a sound education, and even further, being the best. It's not necessarily Frank boasting about his accomplishments (he kinda is, though), it's his pride at doing something, that, in our way of thinking, is the pinnacle of human success.
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Post by Sana Rabbani »

Yes, for sure, there was a huge focus on education throughout. The good thing is that it makes sense. The Author seemed to place himself prior to others regarding his educational achievements and in my opinion, he deserved that.
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Post by amandathebibliophile »

Whether or not the author wanted to set himself apart, I think he’s right to place so much importance on education. After all, an education can open minds and doors in life-altering ways!
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