A Talk to Teachers

In A Talk to Teachers James Baldwin points out the flaws of the education system, and tells the reader what he would do as a teacher to help fix these flaws. Baldwin claims that the education system is "designed to perpetuate the aims of society". What Baldwin means by this is that the education system is teaching the students to not question society, accepting it for what it is, and having no desire to change society. Baldwin is appalled by this, but is especially appalled because it is taught, in society and even in education systems, that blacks are undoubtedly below whites. After discussing the flaws of the education system Baldwin gives examples of how to fix these flaws, this includes informing the student(s) that pop culture is not reality, but is and should be viewed as fantasies. Baldwin also goes into deeper subjects, such as how beautiful yet terrible American history is, and how this contrast also holds true in the world. Baldwin fears that by blacks being constantly put down without being able to express their anger, and by blacks being restrained in their intellectual opportunities that their potential and energy could destroy the country.