John Henry Newman: The Idea of a University

Newman talks about how one branch of education is not the same without the influences of another. His simile referring to colors allowed me to understand his point further. He stated that the many combinations of colors give a different effect to each picture. Without the combination of colors and shades, the picture would not be as intricate. This can apply to education as well. When learning a certain subject such as English, one may be more knowledgeable if they had studied History as well. Linking the two subjects can create a clearer picture in the mind of a student. Knowing the background of a subject may come in handy while studying another. Newman states that being exposed to an array of subjects will benefit the students, even if they don't utilize every one of them. He states, "They learn to respect, to consult, to aid each other." He goes on to talk about the purpose of the university, saying "Its art is the art of social life and its end is fitness for the world." I believe this statement to be very true. Not only does a university teach you subject matter, but it also introduced you to a social arena. It mentally and socially prepares you for the world, and the many obstacles ahead. The university "aims at raising the intellectual tone of society" and provides a clear interpretation of life without judgement or opinion. Universities allow people to think on a more mature and logical level. Attending a university can definitely change a person and their outlook towards the world. I feel that this article was great because it allowed me to look beyond just the educational program in a university. I was able to see that a university not only provides education courses, but it also prepares one for the many social conflicts in life. This article made me think about the changes that I will be going through in the next four years, and how my perspective may change in the future.