Should College Be Free? a Human Right for Accessible Higher Education

What is a Human Right?

According to Webster's Dictionary, a human right is "a right that is believed to belong justifiably to every person." This means every individual is entitled to certain basic rights from birth, including the right to education. College education should be free and accessible to everyone as a fundamental human right, just like primary and secondary education.

The Importance of Free College for Future Success

As children, we all dream of a successful and happy future. For many, attending college is seen as a way to set the foundation for long-term success by opening up opportunities for well-paying, stable jobs. While trade schools and other career paths are valid alternatives, college remains the most feasible option for many seeking a higher income. However, for those who cannot afford the high cost of tuition or are unwilling to take on massive student debt, college can seem out of reach. Given the increasing importance of a college degree in today’s job market, shouldn't it be accessible to all, regardless of financial status?

Free College Can Lower Crime Rates

Making college free could have positive effects beyond just educational attainment. If higher education were realistically available to all, especially to low-income students, crime rates could significantly decrease. Many people turn to criminal activities out of desperation or a lack of opportunity. Offering accessible education could provide them with the means to improve their situations legally, helping reduce crime and promoting positive societal contributions.

Economic Benefits of Free Higher Education

Free college could also benefit the economy in the long term. History shows us that free education can have massive economic returns. For example, the GI Bill after World War II allowed millions of veterans to attend college for free, leading to increased economic growth and higher tax revenue. By making higher education free today, we could see similar positive outcomes in terms of job creation, consumer spending, and economic stability.

Challenges of Free College

However, free college education does come with its own set of challenges. An influx of students could strain the education system, leading to larger class sizes, higher taxes, and potentially lower education quality. Moreover, a surplus of degree holders could devalue the worth of a college diploma. Despite these potential downsides, the benefits of free college outweigh the costs, making it a necessary step toward a more equitable society.

A Broken System in Need of Change

Currently, millions of Americans take on crushing student debt to afford college, impacting their future financial stability. Free education would alleviate this burden and allow graduates to pursue their dreams without the weight of debt holding them back. By making higher education a right rather than a privilege, we can promote the idea of the American Dream for all, regardless of their financial background.

Conclusion

In conclusion, free higher education should be viewed as a basic human right. It would not only benefit individuals but also lead to a more prosperous and just society. Let’s take the steps needed to make free college a reality for everyone.