The past few days I've been having the same conversation over and over again. And I've noticed I seem to be in the minority when it comes to this particular topic. The discussions have all been about politicians, their education or area of expertise, and does it matter.
There are no educational requirements to be a politician. Personality plays a bigger part for the average voter I would think. Canada has had people in power who were super smart but all people talked about was the fact they had no personality....does the name Michael Ignatieff ring a bell? He was constantly criticized that he couldn't relate to voters. So he was "too smart". Interesting.
The current leader of Ontario didn't complete high school. That doesn't seem to be a problem for his supporters but has been an issue for those who don't. Personally, I like the idea that anyone who wants to make this country better can, no matter how "book smart" they are. Truly smart leaders surround themselves with great minds who are willing to compromise, listen and share their expertise anyway.
Many people in their 70's and 80's didn't have much in the way of formal education. Times were tough and money coming in was more important than going to school. Choosing between eating and going hungry wasn't much of a choice. That was the reality of the times for too many. But this generation also believed in serving their country. Should they have been told no because they made different life choices? I don't think so.
Sometimes politicians fall into a certain job where they have some knowledge. Occasionally a doctor is the Health Minister and an account is in charge of finance. Let's keep in mind though that a journalist was in charge of Veteran's Affairs and an arts major is leading Economic Development. I'm not saying they couldn't do a good job because it's not their area but they are not conventionally qualified for that position. Yet we seem to be okay with that.
Education is important. Common sense, the ability to listen and learn is as well. I think the latter is more important in politics than in many jobs. Life experience is, to me, probably what I'm looking for most in my representatives. It might not be for you but it is for me. I can't believe PM Trudeau has ever worried about the cost of gas or grapes being $4 a pound. But I know he understands the challenges of mental health issues because he has dealt with it within his family. If that was my main voting issue I know who I would favor.
For better or for worse over the next twenty years, we will see less and less politicians who don't have some form of higher education. Mainly because the population is heading in that direction. Right now though let us concentrate on the actions of our politicians and their policies not on whether they have a piece of paper or not.
One final note....if you use a persons lack of education to belittle them stop it. It makes you look petty and mean. Not to mention ignorant. No amount of education makes you a kind person. Remember that.
Ang
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