For the past few decades we’ve been told by those on high that American students are losing the critical math and science test score battle.

Probably true. But our response has been to boost coursework in those areas to the detriment of civics and, most importantly, history.

Yeah, I know what most people say: history is just memorization of names and dates. But when have ‘most people’ been right about things? OK—in the case of four out of five dentists recommending sugarless gum, yes.

And I’m in no position to dispute American Idol voters.

Names and dates are just framework for secondary school (and college 101) students, though. History actually teaches critical thinking, research, the assimilation and sifting of evidence, the ability to discern credible information, argument and communication.

Years ago an ed psych (educational psychology) professor tried to tell me that essay tests were subjective. Only true-false and multiple choice formats were free of bias and interpretation, he said.

Fine, I responded. Who lost World War Two?

A. Germany

B. Japan

C. England

D A and B

He answered D.

“Well,” I said, “an argument could be made that C is correct.”

You see, in the post-war period, the U.S. and England launched into a rebuilding project for both Germany and Japan. By the 1970s, West Germany was a strong, peaceful and well defended country. Japan was about to emerge as one of the world’s stronger and more advanced economies. Both thrived under new, democratic governments. Meanwhile Great Britain lost its global empire. The nation remained on rationing into the 1950s.  In the 70s their economy was reeling. The Sex Pistols were able to rant “there’s no future” in songs like “God Save the Queen” and Labour isn’t Working banners—a reference to the ruling Labour Party—appeared on billboards and posters.

But you can only argue that by pulling together the evidence and presenting it in an essay.

A professor of mine at Mizzou graded our essays not with a number, but with a series of Xs. Wherever he etched a red X on your bluebook, he had a question. You then had to meet him face to face and explain why you made each particular statement—back up your interpretation of “what caused the Civil War” with supporting information.

History is the study of change over time. What causes change in our lives? Why do cultures react the way they do? Why and how do ideas permeate a culture? How does religion or ideology cause friction? Why does one political message resonate more than another of equal plausibility?

There are no single correct answers to any of these questions. But honest, open-minded study into these and other questions allows the student to gain a wealth of insight into the day’s critical issues.

Deprive people of coursework in history and they become susceptible to manipulation by politicians and pundits.

Sometimes there’s even a direct crossover between classroom and modern day politics, such as the recent rash of politico-pundits who claimed a stand on “states rights” caused the Civil War.

True—sort of.

The South leaned on states rights to protect the institution of slavery, after all.

Remember when, in the days following Barack Obama’s election, some people rushed to buy guns and ammunition, convinced that the incoming President would wipe out their right to purchase and own weapons? A basic high school course in Civics—remember that subject?—would have put an end to their fears.

Well, maybe. Presidents have been known to circumvent once cherished checks and balances, such as the idea that only Congress can declare war.

Then again, if we knew more about Civics, history and consequences, the population might stand up more often and put a stop to such abuses.

Maybe that’s why no one at the top demands more study of the subjects.