Well-Educated: What Does It Mean?

Anyone who has studied the works of John Searle knows his definition of intellect.  I agree with his characteristics of a well-educated person, that he or she knows the origins of his or her cultural traditions, the basics of natural sciences, society, philosophy and one foreign language, and the essentials of verbal communication; however, this definition omits three very important aspects of education; pattern recognition, athleticism, and artistic inclination. 

While the definition does mention knowing enough philosophy to be able to use tools of logical analysis, it does not include math concepts.  Would Searle prefer that our math teachers taught philosophy instead and hoped that students could work out math basics upon high school graduation?  Personally, I have known several people with advanced degrees who were considered to be “well-educated” but who were also terrible with money management. 

Also, while this definition does mention that a well-educated person knows enough about natural sciences to not be a stranger in the world, it fails to include knowing about the human body and athleticism.  Certainly, the most talented athletes in the world are well-educated, even if by a different definition.  In my four years of teaching, I have witnessed students struggling in their core classes but who act ingeniously on the football field and basketball courts.

Finally, the definition fails to mention an artistic talent or appreciation.  Certainly, society would consider our artistic geniuses, such as Mozart, Picasso, and Gregory Peck, to be well-educated.  Just as I have witnessed students excel in athletics but struggle with core subjects, so I have I witnessed students mastering art while struggling in other academic areas.  Thus, there are other ways to be a well-educated person.  What world the be like if there was only one kind of smart?  Or only five kinds of smart?