Men grow old

Purpose – This sermon argues that artistry and understanding are the offspring of whole people: thoughtful, resolute, and passionate. It then considers some illiberal fashions in higher education that stifle passion. Design/methodology/approach – This is an opinion piece. Findings – Current threats to liberal education include metaphors demeaning to professors, incomprehensible or inconsequential learning objectives, and schemes that increase “intentionality” by limiting students' opportunities for exploration and discovery. Originality/value – This sermon makes vivid to educational leaders and would-be reformers some of the negative consequences of their actions and proposals.