In my classes, twice this week, I've had students ask "Why?"

I love the freedom of this system - the opportunity to question even your teacher's judgement. It is certainly better than gagging as a teacher of English Literature misquotes Shakespeare (Okay, that was probably a little harsh, but, in my defence, I was 19 and didn't know any better.)

But that's a story for another day.

This one is about the specific question, "Why?"

What's that you said? Isn't that the point of the damn thing, an education? To help one think, question, probe?

Sure it is.

But Twice this week, I've been asked: "Why do I have to read this?"

And twice this week I've said - because a University education is supposed to broaden your mind. It is supposed to help you be analytical. This class is supposed to help you write better. And to write better, don't you have to think better?

I'm glad that my students are thinking about the connections.

And I'm disappointed that the connections are not more obvious.