Exams? They are the chain that binds students to their desks and to the status quo, the treadmill that prepares them for the still bigger rat race to come, the gun at the head that threatens to go off should they try to move away, and, maybe worst of ail, the drug that so befogs students' minds that they take this mad scene for normal.
Introduction
How to Take an Exam...& Remake the World by Bertell Ollman is not just a book about passing exams; it is a thought-provoking and revolutionary critique of the education system, capitalism, and the ways in which individuals can challenge these structures. Written by a professor who is also an activist, this book aims to transform the way readers approach both academic life and their roles in society. Ollman argues that the skills one needs to excel in exams are surprisingly similar to the intellectual tools required to change the world. This connection forms the foundation for his broader discussion on social change, the influence of capitalist structures, and the methods by which individuals can begin to think critically about the systems that shape their lives.
This review will explore the key themes of Ollman’s work, the pros and cons of his arguments, and how the book achieves its dual purpose of being both a practical guide for students and a manifesto for broader social change. Through thematic analysis, it will illustrate how Ollman draws on Marxist theory, critical pedagogy, and his own experiences to build a framework for understanding the dynamics of power within education and society. Lastly, I will conclude with an evaluation of the book’s overall effectiveness and its relevance to today's readers.
Thematic Analysis
1. The Examination as a Metaphor for Life
One of the central themes of How to Take an Exam...& Remake the World is the idea that examinations are not merely academic exercises but are reflective of the broader structures of control within capitalist society. Ollman contends that the strategies students use to pass exams—such as memorization, strategic thinking, and performance—are the same tactics people use to navigate capitalist economies. He presents the examination as a metaphor for how individuals are trained to think and act within hierarchical systems that reward conformity and discourage critical thinking.
Ollman argues that by becoming more conscious of how we are conditioned to succeed in examinations, we can also become more aware of how society’s broader systems, like capitalism, condition us to behave in certain ways. In other words, the habits and strategies cultivated through education extend far beyond the classroom, influencing our capacity to challenge or uphold the status quo. For Ollman, the key to "remaking the world" lies in the ability to critique these systems and develop a new way of thinking that allows individuals to resist these ingrained patterns.
2. The Intersection of Education and Capitalism
The book also dives deeply into the relationship between education and capitalism, drawing heavily from Marxist theory. Ollman argues that the education system is a tool of capitalist societies designed to perpetuate inequality and reinforce existing power structures. Schools, universities, and exams are framed as mechanisms that maintain class divisions, ensuring that those from privileged backgrounds continue to have access to better opportunities while others are relegated to lower socioeconomic statuses.
Ollman’s critique of education goes beyond mere discontent with standardized testing. He argues that education, as it exists within capitalist societies, functions to socialize students into passive, obedient workers who are taught to accept their place within the capitalist economy. The system rewards rote memorization and surface-level engagement, which leaves little room for creativity, critical thinking, or genuine understanding. By focusing on these aspects, Ollman urges readers to recognize the importance of education as a site of political struggle.
3. Praxis and Critical Thinking
Another theme that permeates Ollman’s work is the concept of praxis, or the act of putting theory into practice. For Ollman, it is not enough to simply understand how the education system functions within capitalism; one must also act to change it. This is where his advice on "taking an exam" transitions into broader recommendations for activism and social engagement. He stresses the importance of critical thinking, not just as a skill for passing exams, but as a tool for analyzing and critiquing the world around us.
Ollman encourages students to engage in what Paulo Freire referred to as "critical pedagogy"—an educational approach that emphasizes dialogue, reflection, and action. By connecting the skills necessary for academic success with the tools required for societal change, Ollman creates a compelling argument for the role of education in fostering revolutionaries rather than passive citizens.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Innovative Approach to Learning: Ollman’s book is unique in that it bridges the gap between the practicalities of academic life and the broader, more theoretical concerns of social change. He manages to make the subject of exam-taking both accessible and intellectually stimulating, offering practical advice while challenging students to think about their role in society.
- Strong Marxist Framework: The book offers a solid critique of the capitalist education system through a Marxist lens, encouraging readers to see beyond the immediate structures of exams and education. This theoretical foundation adds depth to Ollman’s analysis, making it a valuable resource for those interested in critical pedagogy and socialist theory.
- Empowering Message: Ollman’s message is ultimately one of empowerment. By linking the skills needed to take exams with the intellectual tools required for activism, he encourages readers to believe that they have the power to effect real change, both in their academic careers and in the world at large.
- Clear and Engaging Writing: Despite the heavy subject matter, Ollman’s writing is clear, engaging, and often humorous. He uses personal anecdotes and relatable examples to illustrate complex ideas, making the book accessible to a wide audience, including students who may not be familiar with Marxist theory.
Cons
- Overly Idealistic at Times: While Ollman’s call to action is inspiring, some readers may find his vision of how students can transform society to be overly idealistic. The book does not fully address the practical challenges of organizing collective action or the deeply entrenched nature of capitalist structures.
- Narrow Theoretical Framework: Although Ollman’s Marxist analysis is compelling, it is somewhat limited in scope. The book does not engage with other critical perspectives, such as feminist or postcolonial theories, that could have enriched his critique of the education system.
- Less Focus on Practical Exam Strategies: While the book is framed as a guide to taking exams, its focus on broader social issues sometimes overshadows its practical advice. Students looking for a straightforward exam preparation guide may find the book lacking in concrete tips.
- Abstract at Times: Some parts of the book can feel abstract or theoretical, particularly for readers who are not well-versed in Marxism or critical theory. The connection between exam-taking and societal change may not always feel immediately clear, and some readers may struggle to apply the broader ideas to their own experiences.
Conclusion
How to Take an Exam...& Remake the World by Bertell Ollman is a bold and thought-provoking book that offers both a critique of the education system and a call to social action. By connecting the practical skills required for exam success with the intellectual tools needed for societal change, Ollman presents a unique and compelling argument for the role of education in fostering revolutionary thought. While the book’s Marxist framework may not resonate with all readers, and its vision of societal transformation may seem overly idealistic to some, it remains a powerful text for those interested in critical pedagogy, activism, and the intersections of education and capitalism.
Ollman’s work encourages readers to see beyond the confines of the classroom and exams, urging them to recognize the broader implications of their education in a capitalist world. His writing is engaging, clear, and often humorous, making complex ideas accessible to a general audience. However, the book’s focus on theory may alienate those looking for more practical exam advice, and its narrow theoretical lens may leave some readers wishing for a more diverse range of perspectives. Nevertheless, for those willing to engage with its ideas, How to Take an Exam...& Remake the World is a powerful call to action that challenges us to rethink not only how we approach education but how we can use that education to transform the world.