<Author>Aaron</Author>
<Topic>On Education</Topic>
<Source>CET6 Composition Topic of January 1995</Source>
<Nationality>USA</Nationality>
If knowledge is power, education is the best and most efficient way to spread knowledge. Education, for purposes discussed here, is the systematic and standardized teaching of subjects to groups of people. It is the best and most efficient way to impart knowledge because it is comprehensive, pluralistic, and can be applied to large numbers of people over a wide geographical area. In contrast, private tutoring is comprehensive but cannot be applied to large groups. On the job training (learning a job by doing a job) does not teach essential academic knowledge, only 'vocational skills. It is therefore less comprehensive than education.
History does not always prove that whoever emphasizes education will become strong. The Chinese have traditionally emphasized education yet have been subjugated numerous times. Often, such as the case with the Yellow Emperor or Genghis Khan; a relatively barbaric group strong-armed more knowledgeable but weaker opponents (although the Yellow Emperor did instate the civil-service exam and standardize the educational curriculum). The Greek axial age of intellectual flourishing lasted but a brief period. The Jews, who greatly emphasize education, hold the grim title of the most persecuted people in the world.
 However, in today's modem world, education is essential for success. Without a strong emphasis on education, a country's people cannot possibly compete in a marketplace where technological and social academic knowledge are a necessity. The current world order proves this argument. Countries with widespread general education tend to be developed or developing, while countries that lack widespread education tend to be poor and vulnerable.
