Several readers have been critical of state Sen. Aaron Osmond's interest in making Utah public education voluntary. Some may believe that the idea is stupid. On a higher intellectual level, we find that Osmond is crazy like a fox.
The plan supports what, I believe, are his basic values: 1. Uneducated people are easily controlled; 2. illiteracy is the basis for believing in myths, conspiracy theories and psychotic visions; and 3. lack of public schooling enhances the image of Utah as being a backward state, thereby reducing the number of foreigners desiring to come to Utah.
Voluntary public education is the perfect plan for achieving the Osmond Utopian Utah. Believe me. It was told to me by Athena, the Greek goddess of useful knowledge and wisdom.
M. Donald Thomas
Executive director
Public Education Support Group
Salt Lake City