Transcript for the Piece Audio version of How Philosophy Can Save Your Life

Today’s college students are deeply concerned with finding a job after school, and often that means the means traditional humanities education is seen as a luxury. Enrollment in philosophy classes is declining. And one school, the University of Louisiana, Lafayette recently voted to eliminate its philosophy major. I’m Sarah McConnell and today on With Good Reason, a conversation with an author who says philosophy can transform the way we live.

Later on today’s show, using cognitive psychology to find new ways to teach students who’ve been left behind by the education system:

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But first, Marietta McCarty is a professor of philosophy at Peidmont Virginia Community College and the author of a new book “How Philosophy Can Save Your Life; 10 Ideas That Matter Most” She says knowing what the some of the great thinkers had to say about how to develop clear thinking, quiet reflection, and good conversation-- are essential ingredients in a well-lived life

Interview: Marietta McCarty

Music: People Get Ready

Marietta McCarty is a professor of philosophy at Piedmont Virginia Community College. Her latest book is entitled "How Philosophy Can Save Your Life: 10 Ideas That Matter Most." Coming up next, a research program that is expanding the abstract thinking of inner city children.

This week, president Obama announced a 250 million dollar investment of government and industry funds in science and mathematics education. The science, technology, engineering and mathematic sector is growing, and good jobs are to be had, but African-Americans are vastly underrepresented. Oliver Hill is a professor of psychology and education specialist at Virginia State University. He says many African American students have the talent and desire to work in science, technology, and engineering, but often lack the background in mathematics they need for college. Hill is testing new teaching techniques designed to help middle school students catch up in math.

(Oliver Hill interview)

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Oliver Hill is a professor of psychology and education specialist at Virginia State University.

You’re listening to With Good Reason. Elliot Majerczyk and Jesse Dukes are our associate producers. Andrew Wyndham is our executive producer. Nancy King creates our feature capsules. Jeannie Palin handles listener services and Lydia Wilson is our publicity coordinator. With Good Reason is produced by the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities. For a free copy of this show on CD, call 877-451-5098. I'm Sarah McConnell, Thanks for listening.

PROMO: African-American students often lack the math skills to go into science and technology careers, but a new teaching technique is helping students catch up:

I’m Sarah McConnell. Join me for With Good Reason. [Announce station/date/time]