Do You Need A Degree to Be an Expert?

by Thomas Walker-WerthLifestyleNov 26, 2024

Almost all of my friends went to university after they finished high school. Virtually none of them now work in the field they studied. Twelve years after I graduated, out of the twenty-one people who were in my music production class at university, only one now works in the music industry. 

Why do we go to university, if not to gain the skills necessary to work in a particular field? Does becoming an expert in a particular field require a college degree?

In past generations, going to university was a rare thing. You only did it if you either planned to. . .

On Solid Ground

On Solid Ground is the hub for content from OSI fellows and affiliates, along with announcements about OSI’s programs and events. Here, you’ll find links to our team’s articles, videos, and other materials published across various platforms. And you’ll discover opportunities to support and engage with our global community.

Latest Blog Posts

Christian Theist vs Objectivist Atheist

by Maddox LocherPhilosophy

Nov 21, 2025

Maddox (Objectivist, ex-baptist) and Jake (a Baptist pastor) confront their deepest disagreements about God, morality, and the foundations of truth. They explore whether faith or reason is the more reliable path to knowledge—and how each shapes our understanding of good and evil.

Moral Realism vs. Anti-Realism Is a False Alternative

by Craig BiddlePhilosophy

Nov 21, 2025

Most philosophers claim you must choose between moral realism and moral anti-realism—but that dichotomy is a trap. In his video, Craig breaks down both categories, shows why they fail, and explains the overlooked third option: moral objectivism. You’ll see how values arise from the factual requirements of human life—and why that changes the entire debate.

Northanger Abbey: A Mystery of Motive, Not Murder

by Angelica WerthArt & Culture

Nov 21, 2025

In her new Substack post, Angel discusses Northanger Abbey—a light, fun story about an innocent girl, captivated by Gothic tales, who begins to learn how the “real world” works and how to recognize people’s less-than-innocent motives.

Objective Standard Institute’s 2024 in Review

by Craig BiddleAnnouncements

Nov 17, 2025

OSI advanced its mission—and your values—beautifully in 2024. Here are some highlights of our projects and programs throughout the year.