We seem to have lost. We have not lost. To refuse to fight would have been to lose; to fight is to win. We have kept faith with the past, and handed on a tradition to the future.
Patrick PearseRead
Education should foster; this education is meant to repress. Education should inspire; this education is meant to tame. Education should harden; this education is meant to enervate. The English are too wise a people to attempt to educate the Irish in any worthy sense. As well expect them to arm us.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote critiques the nature of education as it is often delivered, suggesting it aims to suppress rather than uplift.
Patrick Pearse's quote reflects his belief that education, in its traditional form, is often designed to control and subjugate rather than to empower individuals. He contrasts a more inspiring and fostering type of education with one that oppresses and weakens, particularly highlighting the disparities in how the English approach the education of the Irish. Pearse's assertion underlines the political and social implications of education and challenges the status quo, calling for a more meaningful and transformative educational experience.
Themes
EducationEmpowermentOppressionIrishPolitics
In practice
Example use cases
In a lecture on the role of education in society, one could use this quote to illustrate how education can sometimes serve oppressive purposes.
More from Patrick Pearse
All quotes →As long as Ireland is unfree the only honourable attitude for Irish men, women to have is an attitude of rebellion.
Patrick PearseRead
Ireland unfree shall never be at peace
Patrick PearseRead
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