Shop class as soulcraft is a insightful book by philosopher-mechanic Matthew Crawford. He brings to focus some of the gaps in the education and work-value system that contribute to the Socio-Economic challenges we face today.

• How we value, measure and reward work
• Shop classes replaced by computer labs
• Emotional disconnection from work

TEDxTaks May 9, 2011- Matt Crawford-New York Times Best Selling Author-explores the ethical significance of making/fixing things with our very own hands.

Crawford defends trade work as more cognitively stimulating than society recognizes. He considers manual labor to be not only more satisfying to human nature than white-collar work, but often more creative and mentally taxing. Matthew B. Crawford majored in physics then turned to political philosophy 

Backyard Shop Class

This is a great example of a school research project that turned into a backyard shop class, turned into a value creation and the rewards of learning and realizing a dreams. Invaluable life lessons that all 16 year olds can be exposed to. 

See how Austin is using his time every day, embracing and leaning the joy of value creation and independence thanks to the supportive family. 

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