As education becomes increasingly tied to economic outcomes, are we neglecting its broader purpose of shaping informed citizens and well-rounded individuals? How can we design a system that balances these competing demands?

Today’s guest is Dr. Anthony Carnevale, a leading economist and director of the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. With decades of experience advising U.S. presidents and shaping education policy, Dr. Carnevale has served as vice president for public leadership at ETS and chaired the National Commission on Employment Policy under President Clinton. He is one of the foremost voices on the intersection of education, labor markets, and social equity.

In this episode, we explore the evolving role of education in a capitalist economy, examining how its purpose has shifted from personal enrichment to a primary pathway for economic opportunity. Dr. Carnevale discusses the historical roots of this tension and why, since the 1980s, higher education has become essential for obtaining “good jobs.” He highlights the challenges of navigating this new landscape, from the rising costs of college to the diminishing focus on humanities in favor of career-specific training.

We also delve into the broader societal implications of an education system that reinforces class, race, and gender disparities across generations. Dr. Carnevale explains why the value of education extends beyond the job market, emphasizing its importance in fostering a well-informed and engaged citizenry capable of addressing today’s complex challenges, including environmental sustainability and economic inequality.

This conversation invites educators, policymakers, and listeners to rethink the balance between education and training in a way that prepares individuals not only for work but for meaningful participation in society. Whether you’re navigating your own education journey or shaping the policies that guide it, this episode offers critical insights into the future of learning.