I have always (ever since I became old enough to think about it at any rate) believed that formal higher education is not worth the money. As I was doing some Web browsing one evening, I ran across this report, ‘The Dorm Key Ritual’, from respected Christian economist and historian Gary North. It is always nice to have one’s opinions confirmed by an expert.

Dr North gives an economical insight into the cost of an on-campus college or university education, exposes the marketing strategies used to sell such an education, and reveals the startling facts about the more efficient, faster, higher quality alternatives.

It is my opinion that an excellent education–‘higher’ or otherwise–requires only a few ingredients:

1. A student, possessing a mind. It is best if this item comes with a fair degree of intelligence, motivation and industry.

2. Books. Or to be a little broader in these days of high-speed Internet, reading material.

3. Paper. This is to be written or typed upon.

4. Pencils or other writing implements. If you prefer, this may be replaced with a keyboard.

A lifetime of reading and thought, with a bit of writing thrown for good measure. If you’ll excuse me, I’ll go work on that.