What We Lost When We Lost Home Ec

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck explore the history, impact, and decline of home economics education. They trace its origins to the 19th century, highlighting its feminist roots and the role of key figures like Ellen Swallow Richards. They discuss how home economics evolved from teaching basic life skills to incorporating scientific principles and influencing consumerism. The hosts also examine the reasons for the decline of home economics in schools, including standardized testing, feminist critiques, and a shift towards STEM education, while also considering the potential consequences of neglecting these essential life skills in modern education.