We're at McCay here and welcome to the edition of the Art of Manliness Podcast.

Modern students are out to see going to college as the way to earn a credential that will

help them get a good job.

But as Andrew Del Bonco, professor of American Studies at Columbia University argues in

his book, college, what it was, is and should be, higher education was developed for a different

purpose.

One, it should fight to maintain.

Today on the show, Andrew shares how he decided to write his book to understand more about

the history, nature, and value of an institution which has come under increasing pressure in

the modern age.

Andrew describes how America's earliest colleges were founded as places where students

could learn from both their teachers and from each other, and thereby develop the capacity

growing character, serve others, live a good life, and even face death.

Andrew explains why colleges have largely abandoned this mission and makes the case for why it

broad, not entirely specialized, liberal arts education remains relevant in an age in which

the ability to grapple with life's big questions is as crucial as ever.

We also talk about the difference between colleges and universities and know they're not synonymous,

why prospective students might choose the former over the latter, and what other things

those contemplating where to go to school should consider when making the decision.

After the show is over, check out our show notes at a-m.is slash college.

Andrew Del Bonco, welcome to the show.

Thank you, glad to be here.

...