Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Socrates Interpretation

Seattle University is divided over the transition to Division One basketball. The impending change to Division One has students taking sides, either for the transition or against it.
Let us apply the following Socrates proverb to the Division One transition. “The root of education is bitter, but sweet are its fruits.” Some, like Alyss Tsukayama, feel that placing more emphasis on sports could impede her education.
“I feel that Seattle University has a great reputation for high qualities of education, and that is why I chose this school over others that spent more money on sports,” she says.
Tsukayama could be onto something—or missing the point--when juxtaposing Socrates’ stance on bitter and sweet. Her fears and anticipation about Seattle University putting more stock in Division One sports might end up improving the academic experiences for students.
Seattle University basketball coach Gweth talks about the unexpected winning season for his team.
“We came out of nowhere and ended up traveling thousands of miles this season,” he says. “My team goes out on the court and is winning—without the attitude of other teams.”
Taking the time to work, practice and sneak-in might give Seattle U the winning edge. After all, it is easier to win as the expected underdog, without the pressures of previous success.
Because change can harbor resistance, the quote from Socrates could lend a helping hand to those concerned about Seattle University. All anyone can really do s wait and see. This difficult time of transition could end up reaping rewards of improved education from increased finances granted to the school.

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