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Children are not taught to learn or to think, they are taught to be a cog, to listen and perform to a acceptable standard.

Home school critics think that home schools are guilty of this sin themselves, i.e., teaching kids to believe and spout back certain things instead of thinking critically.

It seems like a mixed-bag to me. I've met some very smart, thoughful home schoolers. I've also met some severely closed-minded and ill-educated home schoolers, too.

A lot comes down to motivation. Parents who want to raise smart children who learn in their own ways and are free to think beyond bureaucratic boundaries do a wonderful job. Parents who want to isolate their children from corrupting influences and ensure that they have the exact same social, political and religious beliefs that their parents have, do a terrible job. In any event, though, it's the parents' right and choice to do it however they see fit.

I would only say that critical thinking and an open mind are not the same thing.

I for one do not have an open mind per say, I do however think for myself. An open mind is about being fair and feeling good, thinking for oneself is about being right.

"I've also met some severely closed-minded and ill-educated home schoolers, too."

Isn't that any where in life though? There are severly closed minded, ill-educated people teaching in public schools just the same. There are severly close-minded people all over the place.....and I'm not so sure that's such a bad thing. I'll NEVER "open" my mind on some issues. Ever, ever, ever! Period!!!!

"Parents who want to isolate their children from corrupting influences and ensure that they have the exact same social, political and religious beliefs that their parents have, do a terrible job."

What's the problem with this? I do not want my children to have social, political and religious beliefs different than mine. Should I feel ashamed?