Analysis of The Transcription of Kenyon Universitys Commencement Essay - 23

Analysis of The Transcription of Kenyon Universitys Commencement Address Article - Essay Example The example of fish and the story of ‘the atheist and the religious person’ are interesting narratives that emphatically put across the salient thoughts of the writer. He says that when students become responsible adults, they get so wrapped up in their own individual pursuit of their ambitions in life that they forget to apply their basic human trait that calls for understanding and compassion for others. In the speech, he says that the academic degree gives us the necessary skills to move forward in our professional and private life but unfortunately it does not teach us to be aware of small things that make us happy. ‘Education is not so much about filling you up with knowledge as it is about quote teaching you how to think’ is one of the most profound parts of the speech. Wallace has touched the core of the education system and has made a direct hit. He says that academia gives us knowledge and a knowledge-based capacity to think. But unfortunately, it does not give one confidence to justifiably apply the wider perspectives of those informed choices on our day to day life! We are afraid to look at the different perspectives because that may not conform with our present aims and objectives. We, therefore, end up with a hard paced robotic life where ‘my and mine’ becomes omnipotent. He exhorts the students to become more flexible in their outlook and look beyond the fast-paced life of professionalism. He says that like an atheist, who refuses to acknowledge the two Eskimos as answers to his prayers, we are also deluding ourselves with our make-believe successes and unrealistic goals.