In a given context, the value of a person, institution, object, idea, skill or symbol is determined by the relationships it can establish. It can be a potential value somewhere in the future, or a symbolic value rooted in a particular history, or even a negative or toxic value.
Value can extend to an entire group or system: astronomical values are attributed to sports clubs or social networks. We're also beginning to recognize the value of forests, not just trees, or of a landscape, not just fields or soil. These values are calculated in relational terms; the accounting point of view is only part of it. The value of weather forecasts increases with their accuracy. The fluctuating value of a gold coin or a bitcoin varies with the economic climate; objectively, they're just pieces of metal and a series of symbols.
Certain values are far from universal, even if they are aimed at the collective good, such as gender equality or human rights. Defending or attacking certain values is often the only real target in a conflict.
What are the values conveyed by schools? Generally a mixture of the values of the environment in which they operate and the values of those who fund them. The public's perception of the value of teachers has declined. Is there a belief that teachers or schools can contribute less? If the Internet or A.I. offer advantages, they are far from sufficient.
Teachers, schools and universities contribute much more than they let on. Ignorant people are capable of very little that is constructive; those who learn from their mistakes make the world evolve. Those capable of self-criticism can progress, whether in science, the arts or politics. Those who can't aren't worth much in the end.
Denys Lamontagne - [email protected]
