Sir, – I was dismayed to read of the proposal to drop history as a core subject for Junior Certificate but was heartened to hear Prof Diarmaid Ferriter’s impassioned plea, in the Oireachtas education committee, for its retention (Breaking News, June 12th).
I teach at primary level, where all children rightly get the opportunity to begin the study of history. I feel very strongly this needs to be continued at second level for all young people. The study of history gives young people a context from which they can begin to understand themselves and others. It helps them to understand the society in which they function. It broadens their world view and provides an integrative lens for viewing humanity.
Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Walter McDougall wrote, “History is the grandest vehicle for vicarious experience: it truly educates . . . young minds and obliges them to reason, wonder, and brood about the vastness, richness, and tragedy of the human condition.”
So crucially the teaching of history promotes analytical, critical thinking and intellectual growth. The health of a democracy can be measured by its citizens understanding of history. Shame on this Government for contemplating this downgrading of history at second level. – Yours, etc,
EIBHLIN CAMPBELL, BEd,
Lynwood, Dundrum,
Dublin 16.