We Don't Need No Education

In: FP, Issue 207

Abstract

It was the summer of 2012, and Hong Kong was in an uproar. The pro-Beijing government's attempts to put in place a so-called 'patriotic education' curriculum -- one with lessons similar to those taught in mainland China -- were met with howls of protest across the city. The government claimed it was only trying to further a more thorough understanding of Chinese culture and history. And Hong Kongers, ever defensive of their way of life, took to the streets by the tens of thousands. In fact, a study indicates that those decrying 'thought control' were right to worry: Changes to an educational curriculum can have a profound effect on how students think. In Hong Kong, the government eventually backed down. The 'patriotic education' plans have been put on ice, and the rowdy protests have ceased. Adapted from the source document.