Why are sociologists often critical of the idea of universal education as a great equalizer that creates a freer and equal society?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sociologists often argue that schools are not a great equalizer and that universal education is not enough to create a freer, more equal society because schools themselves often reproduce social inequality through a hidden curriculum. The hidden curriculum refers to the unspoken values and behaviors that students learn in school that reinforce dominant societal norms and beliefs. For example, schools often teach conformity, obedience to authority, and competition, which may benefit those from higher social classes and disadvantage students from lower social classes. As a result, sociologists argue that more systemic changes are needed to address social inequality, such as access to resources, wealth redistribution, and changes to the economic system.

Why Are Sociologists Often Critical of the Idea of Universal