Primary sourceSpeechNovember 1907
The Social Value of the College-Bred
William James · November 1907
A 1907 address by William James on the purpose and value of a college education.
James gave this address himself, outlining his personal philosophy of education.
About this source
What it is
This is an address delivered by philosopher William James in 1907, exploring what a college education is actually for and what it should give students.
Why it matters
The speech reflects debates of James's era about the purpose of higher education compared to practical or technical training. It shows James's views on culture, judgment, and the goals of learning.
Look closer
- What does James think a college education should teach that a trade school cannot?
- Why might James compare 'college' education to 'school' training in this way?
- Does his argument still apply to education today?
This speech is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of William James on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.
More William James sources
Meet the AI William James →
BookPrimary source
The Principles of Psychology
William James · 1890
BookPrimary source
The Varieties of Religious Experience
William James · 1901-1902
Primary source
Pragmatism: A New Name for Some Old Ways of Thinking
William James · 1907
Primary source
The Will to Believe
William James · 1896
PaintingPrimary source
William James
John La Farge · 1859
Ready when you are
Start chatting with William James now.
20 messages free · No credit card · Available in 50+ languages.