Education

Universal Education System

Education is universal and free throughout the Empire. It begins from the first words and progresses throughout childhood and adolescence.

The system strongly emphasizes the sciences - both classical and arcanotechnological - reflecting the Empire’s technological priorities.

Prestigious Schools and Early Specialization

Certain highly reputed schools exist for sciences and integration into specialized military sections. Entrance exams are very difficult but open to all, creating an appearance of meritocracy.

Talent detection: In all standard schools, the best students whose results suggest they are eligible for specialized schools are pushed to take the tests, regardless of their age. Since these schools are prestigious, families do everything to get their children in.

Social pressure: Although society is post-scarcity, competition to enter these schools creates significant social pressure on young people and their families.

Diversity of Paths

Children not gifted in sciences can turn to artistic, artisanal, or management careers. The system officially values diversity of talents, but scientific and military careers remain the most prestigious.

Since the labor of the masses is not necessary for society’s survival, people can afford to follow their passions rather than economic imperatives.

Arts and Humanities

Arts and humanities are taught, but less valued than sciences. Since work is no longer present to alienate the masses, imperial propaganda must be more subtle. Arts and humanities are used to help understand imperial culture and promote the Empire’s ideology, but not excessively.

The Council’s fear: Too thorough a humanities education could develop critical thinking, threatening the fragile balance of this compromised utopia. The Council has managed to lead humanity to a nearly utopian position, but using more than questionable methods.

Military Education

Military service is not mandatory, but strongly encouraged. The best students from specialized schools are often recruited for prestigious military academies. Those who choose to serve receive numerous social and economic benefits.