Page 12 - Menlo Magazine: Winter 2018

WINTER 2018
Matthew Nelson
Upper School History Teacher
“Man’s capacity for justice makes democracy possible, but man’s inclination to injustice makes democracy necessary.” —Reinhold Niebuhr, American Christian theologian, leading public intellectual of the 20th century, and recipient of the National Medal of Freedom (1964)
So much of my life’s study and work has been devoted to the exploration of philosophies, stories, and histories of (in)justice. I am inspired by the potential democracy has to make a more equitable, free, and humanizing world. Even as democracy seems to be in modest global retreat, I am committed to its robust manifestation in our pluralistic country and to seeing its realization in other parts of the world. Therefore, I pursue my vocation in education in order to pass this hope for democracy to create a better world on to my students and to help them discover for themselves the power of its attendant precepts of an engaged civic life, equal human rights for all, equal application of the rule of law, and a purpose- lled, meaningful life.
Menlo School gathers together intelligent, thoughtful, conscientious, and caring students and faculty. We take the academic (and extracurricular) enterprise very seriously, not just for scholastic excellence but for the true joy of learning.
There is an energy, a momentum to this environment that inspires the best in all involved. Here, we are in the process of being and becoming—students and adults— the citizens and the cosmopolitans the world needs. I have to believe, with all of the inhumanity, injustice, and conscientiousness today, that Menlo School is truly that “oasis of civility” (to quote John Schafer) where diverse students together ideate a better world. And it really is. Besides, Menlo has an inclusive school culture, great food, and frass (faux grass) to lie on when it is sunny and warm. These things are good for the soul!
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