Excellent Sheep: A Critique of Elite Education's Conformity

Chapter 1 Understand the idea behind Excellent
Sheep

"Excellent Sheep: The Miseducation of the American Elite and the
Way to a Meaningful Life" is a book by William Deresiewicz. In
this book, Deresiewicz explores the flaws of the modern education
system and the pressure placed on students to pursue narrow
definitions of success and achievement.


Deresiewicz, a former Yale professor, argues that the education
system focuses too much on grades, test scores, and prestige,
rather than fostering creativity, intellectual curiosity, and a
sense of purpose. He criticizes what he calls the "meritocracy"
where students are pushed to achieve for the sake of achievement,
often leading to a lack of authenticity and fulfillment in their
adult lives.


The term "Excellent Sheep" comes from a quote by former Yale
professor William Sloan Coffin, who said, "The best lack all
conviction, while the worst are full of passionate intensity."
Deresiewicz sees this as reflective of the conformity and lack of
critical thinking fostered by the education system.


Through personal anecdotes, interviews with students, and a deep
analysis of societal pressures, Deresiewicz offers insights and
suggestions for creating a more meaningful education system that
values personal growth, self-discovery, and the pursuit of true
passions. He encourages students to think critically about their
goals and aspirations, and to find their own paths rather than
conforming to societal expectations.


"Excellent Sheep" has sparked much discussion and debate about
the current state of higher education and the effects of the
pressure to achieve. It offers a critique of the status quo and a
call to action for reforming the education system to better serve
the needs of students.
Chapter 2 Is Excellent Sheep Worth the Hype?

The book has received generally positive reviews and has been
praised for its critique of the higher education system and its
examination of the pressure and conformity faced by college
students. It has been described as thought-provoking, insightful,
and well-researched. If you are interested in exploring topics
related to education, personal development, and the challenges
faced by students, you might find "Excellent Sheep" to be a
valuable read.
Chapter 3 Overview of Excellent Sheep

"Excellent Sheep: The Miseducation of the American Elite and the
Way to a Meaningful Life" is a book written by William
Deresiewicz that examines the flaws of the education system
in America, particularly within elite institutions.


The book argues that many elite colleges and universities
prioritize the development of narrow skills and the pursuit of
prestige over the pursuit of a truly meaningful and fulfilling
education. Deresiewicz suggests that these institutions and their
students are often consumed with competition, conformity, and
achievement, leading to a culture of "excellent sheep" who are
focused on getting the best grades, securing high-paying jobs,
and maintaining a certain social status, rather than cultivating
genuine intellectual curiosity and personal growth.


Deresiewicz draws on his own experiences as a professor at Yale
University, as well as interviews with students and faculty from
various elite institutions, to shed light on the detrimental
effects of this education system. He critiques the
overspecialization and hyper-competitive nature of these
institutions, arguing that they produce graduates who lack the
ability to think critically, engage in meaningful social and
political discourse, and find true fulfillment in their lives.


Additionally, Deresiewicz highlights the impact of societal
pressures and...