The speaker argues that modern education systems, influenced by Confucian principles, attempt to mold children into societal norms rather than nurturing their innate nature. This approach leads to children losing their natural curiosity and individuality, resulting in anxiety, depression, and a sense of disconnection from their true selves.
Sun Wukong and 1900 are used as examples to illustrate that individuals can achieve greatness without traditional parental or educational structures. Both characters, despite lacking conventional family or educational support, thrived due to their innate abilities and freedom from societal constraints, highlighting the limitations of rigid educational systems.
The speaker critiques Confucian educational principles for imposing rigid societal roles and expectations on individuals, stifling their natural growth. Confucianism’s focus on hierarchical relationships and moral obligations often leads to a loss of individuality and a disconnect from one’s true nature, contributing to widespread societal issues like anxiety and family discord.
The speaker suggests adopting a Taoist approach to education, emphasizing '生而不有,为而不恃,长而不宰' (to nurture without possession, to act without expectation, and to guide without control). This method allows children to grow according to their innate nature, fostering harmony and reducing societal pressures.
The speaker believes that modern parents often overcontrol their children’s lives, attempting to mold them into societal ideals rather than allowing them to grow naturally. This overbearing approach leads to children feeling disconnected, anxious, and unable to find their true purpose.