American Socrates

Are Grades Killing Education?

Charles M. Rupert Season 1 Episode 13

Send us a text

We’ve all been told that grades are how we measure success and learning in school. But what if that’s a lie we’ve all just accepted? In this episode, we take a hard look at the role of grades in education—not just how they work, but who they really serve.

Grades are often treated like neutral indicators of learning, but they shape the way students think, what teachers prioritize, and how schools define success. They create pressure, foster competition, and punish mistakes, even though mistakes are how we learn. They claim to reward merit, but often just reflect privilege.

So who are grades really for? Students? Teachers? Employers? Or are they part of a system that values sorting above individual growth?

If you’ve ever felt like grades don’t tell the whole story—this episode is for you.

Hit play and join the conversation that could change how you see school forever.


Support the show

People on this episode

Podcasts we love

Check out these other fine podcasts recommended by us, not an algorithm.

The Ezra Klein Show Artwork

The Ezra Klein Show

New York Times Opinion
Philosophize This! Artwork

Philosophize This!

Stephen West