What is multum non multa?
Where would more depth and less coverage improve classical Christian schools?
The answer to this question has direct implications for the formation of students and the culture of a school.
Schools embracing the ancient educational philosophy of multum non multa must exercise institutional discipline, and teachers must practice self-control.
Multum non multa is a Latin phrase meaning “much, not many.”
This phrase describes the philosophical approach of classical education. Classical Christian schools expect students to learn deeply and thoroughly about the most important aspects of Western civilization and God’s created order. Learning through multum non multa differs from the approach of most modern schools, which seek to touch on many aspects of various subjects (like a rock skipping across a pond) without much depth.
Imagine a rock climber seeking to scale the side of a cliff. If there are dozens of large handholds and footholds, the climber can easily ascend to the top of the mountain. However, if there are hundreds of tiny fingerholds and footholds (with no major handholds), it will be much more difficult for the climber to scale the mountain.
In classical Christian education, the desire is to provide students with deep learning in key areas that can be referenced and used for future lifelong learning. This gives students major foundational reference points to hold on to as they climb the mountain of life.
The goal is not simply institutional distinction but faithfulness in forming young people and giving them tools for life.
Where would more depth and less coverage improve classical Christian schools?
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