[OldPossum]

There is a lot in this that makes sense but a couple sentences give me pause. Here's one:

"Nothing destroys a love of learning like forcing a kid who wants to fix engines to spend his youth memorizing the kings of medieval France."

I suppose the author is trying to make a point as regards frustration on the part of a person who has a vocation in mind at the expense of making light of history, but it is the understanding of history that allows a citizen to understand the underpinnings of his culture. The lack of this understanding is precisely what allows citizens to be manipulated by politicians.

Yes, I know that we are not French but it is the values passed on to us by the Founding Fathers, all of whom were well versed in the the Old World (European and Greek) philosophers that guide our nation today.

[XBob]

the germans seem to have the best system - at about 14 or 16 they determine if they wish to fix cars or be more academic, and they split off into two lines - apprentice ship programs for those not study inclined, and a college program for those who wish to continue their education. That gives them excellent mechanics and excellent intellectuals, each specializing in the area where they are best suited.