RE: Towards a Holistic Philosophy of Education - The Uniqueness of the Individual
The education system is in dire need of a complete overhaul!
While moving from foster family to foster family, Jacob ended up with one that was abusive. Physically, sexually, and emotionally. He was mistreated for almost a year before it was discovered, and he finally ended up at 12 years old with a loving stable family. This was the family I got to meet with. But Jacob now had years of tragic experiences under his belt, and had no idea how to successfully cope with everything he was dealing with inside.
I read a book a while ago by a Richard McKenzie, professor of economics, who grew up in an orphanage. The book is an autobiography, but the overall argument is that orphanages are better options than foster care, and he laments the fact that the government decided for the latter. He argues orphans turn out better both professionally and emotionally compared to foster children.
It might seem strange, but I often think that Plato's idea of the Polis (government) raising children instead of their parents (who might be carrying with them all sorts of issues), often makes much sense.