The true purpose of higher education is not to superimpose on the student a standardized veneer of knowledge, skills, and attitudes so that he ultimately can be identified as a college graduate. It is to provide a stimulating environment of thought in which the student is encouraged to find himself, to identify his individual talents, and to begin the development of such talents for the benefit of himself and of society as a whole. It is to promote growth from within, not accretion.
The true purpose of higher education is certainly not at odds with Christian Science. The Christian Scientist is in a position to derive great benefit from a college experience. This Science embraces, transforms, and enriches what otherwise might be nothing more than a routine schedule of courses.
The college student who possesses a demonstrable understanding of Christian Science, who steadfastly seeks first to learn more of this Science and to apply it, develops a state of thought that unerringly discerns the essence of the academic studies he pursues, puts these studies in perspective, and judges their basic value. There is no question about the general worth of a college education. Our Leader, Mrs. Eddy, writes on page 195 of the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health: "Academics of the right sort are requisite. Observation, invention, study, and original thought are expansive and should promote the growth of mortal mind out of itself, out of all that is mortal."
