Summary of the Core Content
This article essentially calculates the “long-term cost-benefit” of the current highly competitive middle school education system. In response to the heated online debate about whether to eliminate subjects like history and geography from the core curriculum to make more time for practicing math, physics, and chemistry, the author dispels the common misconception that practicing these subjects equates to developing logical thinking. The author points out that the amount of practice required for math and physics has already reached a stage where the marginal benefits are very low. In contrast, subjects such as history and geography, which are often underestimated, provide a cognitive foundation, social understanding, and a dynamic worldview that are much more valuable for a person’s life development after the age of 30. It is not worth sacrificing one’s future development for a few extra points in the college entrance exam.
---
Detailed Interpretation
1. Don’t Be Misled by the Idea That Practicing Math and Physics Develops Logic
Many people support removing humanities subjects to focus on math and physics, arguing that “math and physics develop logic, while humanities are just rote memorization.” This argument is completely unfounded. When you first encounter functions, mechanics, and chemical reactions in high school, you indeed learn a new way of thinking that can improve your logical skills. However, by the sophomore and senior years, the type of problems you face are often complex and require applying basic methods to solve advanced problems—this is not the same as using basic tools for complex tasks. What you’re developing is proficiency, endurance, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. While these skills are useful, spending 100 hours on practice will only boost your exam scores by a few points, making it a costly investment with little return.
2. Equating Education with Vocational Training is the Biggest Mistake Parents Make
Many people dismiss history and geography because they believe they are not practical skills that can lead to direct job opportunities or financial benefits. But if we follow this logic, the most “profitable” education would be vocational training, like attending a technical school. Yet, companies prefer to hire graduates from prestigious universities even if they have no practical experience, paying them much more. This is because vocational training limits a person’s potential; you may rely on specific skills for a while, but 99% of people will not become top experts. After the age of 30, coordinating with colleagues, dealing with clients, and making strategic decisions require broader skills. The humanities education you neglect in favor of math and physics actually limits your potential for the rest of your life.
3. History and Geography Provide a Free “Navigation Map” for Life
The knowledge you learn in middle and high school—such as monsoon patterns, the Silk Road, and population migration—may not be directly useful for making money, but it forms the foundation of your cognitive system. History gives you a sense of time, and geography gives you a sense of space. Without this foundation, you’ll struggle to understand the world; for example, you won’t be able to relate news about Xinjiang’s industries to its climate or the climate patterns in ancient China. These basic facts act as a safety net, helping you avoid common misunderstandings and scams.
4. The “Memorized Knowledge” You Think Is Useless Is Actually Key to Social Interaction
History and geography also contribute to a shared cultural understanding that allows people from different fields to connect. Knowing about El Niño, Galileo, or population trends helps you engage in meaningful conversations. In business and personal relationships, these topics can help build rapport. Many skilled professionals struggle to advance because they can’t engage in these broader discussions.
5. Ordinary People Need Both Skills and a Broad Knowledge Base
Unless you are a genius or have the skills to join a top tech company, you need a balanced education. One set of skills ensures you can find a job, while the humanities provide the cognitive foundation needed to navigate life’s challenges. Focusing solely on practical skills can lead to a narrow perspective and poor relationships. The current push to eliminate humanities subjects from the core curriculum is a foolish move that sacrifices long-term potential for a few extra points in the exam.