Liberals tend to stress how marvelous education is, in and of itself, and also adore it as a vessel for genuine equality. (That's me, by the way: Hell, I think we should be spending $50 billion a year to make college education free).

The quote by Rick Perlstein emphasizes the strong value that liberals place on education, both as an intrinsic good and as a means to achieve equality. By saying that education is "marvelous in and of itself," Perlstein highlights the idea that learning enriches human life regardless of material outcomes. At the same time, he underscores its role as a vessel for genuine equality, pointing out how access to education can level social and economic disparities.

Perlstein further illustrates his belief by proposing a bold idea: investing $50 billion a year to make college education free. This reflects his stance that higher education should not be a privilege reserved for the wealthy but a right accessible to all. His comment situates him within a long tradition of progressive thinkers who see educational access as central to democracy, social mobility, and national progress.

The origin of this quote is rooted in Perlstein’s role as a historian and journalist, known for his writings on American politics and culture. He often critiques economic inequality and the structural barriers that prevent equal opportunity. Here, he is not only describing liberal philosophy but personally aligning himself with it, declaring, “That’s me, by the way.” This personal note shows that his perspective is both analytical and deeply held.

Ultimately, Perlstein’s words connect to a broader political debate about the role of government investment in education. By linking equality, opportunity, and free college education, he makes the case that society benefits when learning is treated as a universal right rather than a market commodity. His statement reflects ongoing discussions about education reform in the United States and its potential to reshape social structures.