Legislative findings

The Legislative Assembly finds that: (1) For its survival and political well-being, Oregon needs wise and effective leadership and an informed citizenry. (2) For its survival and economic well-being, Oregon needs able and imaginative men and women for the direction and operation of all its institutions, for the production of goods and services and for the management of its fiscal affairs. Oregon also needs alert and informed consumers. (3) For its cultural advancement, Oregon needs creative talent as well as appreciative and discriminating readers, viewers and listeners. Oregon also needs people who understand the diverse patterns of behavior, communication and belief that make up the common cultures of the various communities in which we all must function. (4) For its survival, Oregon needs citizens who understand the interdependence of human beings and our shared dependence on the resources provided by our natural environment. (5) Oregon needs people who, in the roles of parents and teachers and in other capacities, are able to transmit the state’s and the nation’s ideals and heritage to future generations. (6) For their personal well-being, individual Oregonians need to cultivate an advanced literacy essential to leading productive and rewarding lives. This includes the capacity to think logically and critically; to internalize and exemplify humane values; to write, speak and figure clearly and accurately; to understand, in some depth, a variety of psychological, historical, cultural, aesthetic and scientific concepts and theories; and to master a range of occupational, professional, avocational, social and personal skills.