About the Episode

In this episode of Common Knowledge, Dr. David Diener—Hillsdale professor, Plato scholar, and former classical school headmaster—unpacks why classical education still matters in the 21st century.

What if the goal of school isn’t just a good job or high test scores, but becoming a fully flourishing human being? Diener contrasts the 2,000-year Western tradition—rooted in virtue, wonder, truth, goodness, and beauty—with the modern shift toward practical training and “relevance” that began with the Industrial Revolution and progressive thinkers like John Dewey.

He explains how classical education cultivates excellence in thought, character, and community life, producing graduates who succeed by conventional measures and live deeper, more meaningful lives.

A thought-provoking conversation on what education is really for—and why the classical approach might be more relevant today than ever.

About Dr. David Diener

Dr. Diener is the author of Plato: The Great Philosopher‑Educator and has published widely on Plato, Kierkegaard, and the philosophy of education. He holds a BA in Philosophy and Ancient Languages from Wheaton College, an MA in Philosophy, an MS in the History and Philosophy of Education, and a dual PhD in Philosophy and Philosophy of Education from Indiana University. He currently serves as the Assistant Professor of Education at Hillsdale College.

More about Dr. Diener: https://www.hillsdale.edu/faculty/david-diener/

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