Noam Chomsky views the current educational system, particularly in the U.S., primarily as a system of indoctrination and social control designed to produce an obedient and conformist citizenry. This function, he argues, serves to maintain existing power structures and private interests. 

Core Criticisms

• Indoctrination vs. Enlightenment: Chomsky contrasts two conflicting ideals of education: the Enlightenment ideal (focused on inquiry, creativity, independence of thought, and self-discovery) with the indoctrination approach (focused on obedience, conformity, and accepting established frameworks). He argues the current system largely follows the latter, "pouring water into a vessel" rather than helping students "draw out" their potential.
• Filtering for Obedience: The system acts as "a very elaborate filter" that weeds out people who are too independent or who think for themselves. Individuals willing to perform "ridiculous tasks" without questioning authority are often favored, while those who challenge the system may be labeled as behavioral problems.
• Privatization and Corporatization: Chomsky heavily criticizes the push for the privatization of the educational system, from public schools to universities. This is viewed as an assault on the public good, turning education into a profit-making enterprise and undermining the ethic of caring about others and the broader community.
• Dual System for Elites and the General Public: He suggests a dual system exists. Education for the general population is designed to impose obedience and passivity. However, education for the elites, while still within the system, must allow for creativity and independence of thought, as these qualities are necessary for them to manage institutions and generate profit.
• Undermining Critical Thinking: Practices such as "teaching to the test" are criticized for destroying students' natural interest in learning and discouraging critical inquiry. The focus is on test-taking rather than on the meaningful pursuit of topics that excite students. 

Noam Chomsky's Ideal Education

Chomsky advocates for an educational environment that encourages: 

• Creative Exploration: Fostering the willingness to challenge accepted beliefs and "cross frontiers".
• Independence of Thought: Empowering individuals to learn independently, find their own way, and formulate serious questions.
• Cooperation and Solidarity: Emphasizing mutual support and peer interaction over competition.
• Inquiry and Discovery: Valuing the process of searching and discovering knowledge over simply memorizing facts for tests. 

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