a favourite author of mine (bill bryson) once said that 'for all intents and purposes' is rather tautological and he couldn't be further away from the truth... but when ya're asked whats the value and purpose of social studies education here, it makes ya feel like the be all and end all, begins verily with 'for all intents and purposes' followed by some hallowed motherhood statements that would bring a cheshire grin to the powers that be.
but truth be told, its more than that if i may ramble/elucidate. perhaps, a quote from Gregory House (M.D) might help us out although its rather cynical and sarcastic. then again, would Hugh Laurie win the Best Actor at the Golden Globe w/o the witticism of House?
anyways, back to the point:
"People like talking about people. Makes us feel superior. Makes us feel in control. And sometimes, for some people, knowing some things makes them care." [Dr Gregory House, Season 1, Episode 13]
perhaps, if we dig deep enough, to the subterranean level at least, we might realise the value and purpose of social studies (SS) education here is to create a robust, positive self-concept about ourselves. afterall, we are but a tiny little red dot? nyet? but then again, doesn't a positive self-concept begin from the inside out? how are we to punch above our weight at regional and global forums if we don't have a clear concept of what we are and what we can do?
but more importantly, SS education is to inculcate a sense of graciousness that we need if we are to be conscious, caring global citizens. not just at the local level, i.e., about staying rooted and being compassionate towards the less fortunate too but also across international borders. its about knowing yourself, how to care for yourself that you might care for others in return as the biblical proverb says: 'do unto others as you would have them do unto you'.
in some ways, the gems of truth hidden under House's cynicism underlines the value and purposes of SS education here. airy fairy as it may sounds, its the bigger picture that we educators have to keep in mind as we simplify it for our students to apply it in their daily lives with the hope that one day, they will understand the meaningingful relationships behind their actions... ...
