By now we’re used to seeing these world-wide rankings that show America’s students trailing their counterparts in too many other countries. In math, in science, in geography, in history. It’s as sobering as it is embarrassing.
But now this: A report by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development has analyzed financial knowledge among 15-year-olds in 18 nations. And the U.S., the world’s largest economy and beacon of free enterprise, finished 9th with an overall numerical ranking that was slightly below average. For the record, teens in China, Belgium and Estonia fared the best.
This report isn’t about not knowing world capitals or who Archduke Ferdinand was. It’s about making decisions on a variety of real world topics–from student loans to retirement planning. When the citadel of capitalism finishes back in the pack, it’s beyond embarrassing. It’s worrisome.