Social StudiesÌýNeeded toÌýUnderstand CulturalÌýChangeÌý
The new proposal to reduce the social studies requirement in our public schools, in favor of programs that promote science, technology, education, and mathematics (STEM) skills sounds like a good idea on the surface.
It would help provide for appropriately educated employees in Hawaii’s high-tech work force.ÌýHowever, ifÌýit is going to come with the sacrifice of social studies, its goal could be counter-productive. People are not machines to be programmed.
Current pop cultureÌýhas beenÌýinfluenced by a series of cultural trends. These included the ancient Greeks and Romans, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance in Southern Europe, the Reformation in Northern Europe, the enlightenment from the Age of Reason, the Scientific Age, the Age of Personal Peace and Affluence, all leading to the popular culture of today.
Hawaii itself wasÌýintroduced to Western culture with Kamehameha’s exposure to Vancouver, which led to an easing of the kapu system. The American Civil War led to a boom in the sugar and whaling industries. These events significantly influenced Hawaii’s history. An understanding of these events can help prepare our future leaders.
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About the author: Richard B. Dole is CEO of Dole Capital, LLC of Honolulu, an investment banking firm.
