The ubiquitous question from teenagers to teachers is: “why do I need to know this?” The truth is, you probably don’t. Most of what is learned in school is never used directly. But the key is “directly”. While almost every high school student takes algebra, the vast majority never use algebra beyond algebra class. So why learn it?
It is well known that bodies benefit from exercise. People spend hours on cardiovascular workouts – running, biking, and swimming – and on strength training. Yet, how often in “real life” does anyone need to run 5K, bike 80 miles, or bench press 200 pounds? Almost never. Nevertheless, people work out because they know their bodies work better and feel better as a result. The same is true of intellectual workouts.
Muscles atrophy with disuse; and so does the brain. Regular use of reasoning and problem-solving skills helps keep the brain in top condition. Studying now can make your brain more effective later – it might help you understand a contract before you sign it, recognize an opportunity when presented with one, or see through a scam before you’ve been had.
Learning new things not only exercises the intellect, but builds mental connections as well. Building connections with existing knowledge is one of the fundamental ways new learning takes place. Thus, the more you know the easier it is to learn even more. Learning new concepts and skills becomes easier – it might help you excel at a new job, learn do-it-yourself home and auto repairs, or manage your personal finances more effectively.
Louis Pasteur once said “chance favors the prepared mind”. No doubt Pasteur’s prepared mind had something to do with his name being printed on milk cartons 150 years later. “Why do I need to know this?” The truth is you don’t. But you will greatly improve your quality of life if you do.
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