Why Religious Groups Encourage Trades Over College Education

Many religions, such as Jehovah's Witnesses, emphasize the importance of pursuing trades over attending college. However, this practice is not unique to them. Other religious groups also actively encourage their members to engage in trades instead of higher education. This article explores why religious groups promote trades and the reasons behind these practices.

Evangelical and Fundamental Christian Denominations

Fundie Christians, including evangelicals, and even some traditional Catholics, often discourage pursuing higher education. The common belief is that attending a top-tier university could cause their young to lose their faith and jeopardize their eternal salvation. This notion is a misguided approach to the value of education.

Challenges to Control

Churches that impose arbitrary claims of authority on their members do not want their flock to question these claims. Such skepticism could reveal underlying motives such as financial or political interests. Education tends to foster critical thinking, which can undermine these forms of control. For this reason, religious leaders often discourage higher education.

However, it is important to note that education is a positive force. Many of my church friends are highly educated individuals. They hold doctorates or are professors, showing that pursuing higher education does not equate to a loss of faith.

Education and Interpretations of Scripture

Religious groups that adhere to stricter interpretations of scripture may be wary of mainstream universities due to their perceived liberal or progressive worldviews. In contrast, more conservative denominations, such as Anglicans, Presbyterians, Lutherans, and Catholics, generally support education. However, they may be less inclined to encourage studies in humanities.

Traits of Different Denominations

For example, certain denominations place a greater emphasis on the sciences and practical trades, which align with their strict religious teachings. However, this does not mean that they discourage education entirely. These groups recognize the value of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which can be developed through higher education.

The Practice of Choosing Trades

It is worth considering that not everyone is college material. My own experience is a case in point. Upon graduating high school, I received average grades around a 3.0 average and had no clear path for my future. During my time, the skilled trades were not readily available, but this has since changed. Today, there is a high demand for individuals to apprentice in the trades.

Not surprisingly, many religious groups continue to encourage their members to pursue trades. For instance, some Jehovah's Witnesses do attend college, as evidenced by my grandson's experience. Additionally, military service can provide individuals with essential skills that apply to various vocations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, religious groups often emphasize trades over college education due to a variety of factors, including the desire to maintain control, the fear of liberal worldviews, and personal belief. However, modern times have changed the landscape, with a growing demand for skilled tradespeople. While critical thinking is discouraged by some, education remains a powerful tool for personal and societal development. Therefore, it is essential to acknowledge the nuances in religious practices and their respective attitudes toward education and trades.