I just spent nearly a month in the Peruvian Amazon, where most of my time was spent in silence and solitude. From this experience, I understand, probably as much as anyone, the value of long periods spent in quiet, introspection, and contemplation —free from the ego’s chatter or technology’s distractions.
But despite my deep appreciation for silence, I draw no satisfaction from the fact that, under a law taking effect July 1, all Idaho public school students will be required to observe a moment of silence at the start of each day. In nearly 40 years of public policy reporting, research, and analysis, this mandatory silence requirement stands as one of the most perplexing mandates I have ever seen. I love silence — but I dislike the use of force to require it.
The new law, House Bill 623, states:
“At or near the beginning of each school day, in all grades and in all Idaho public schools, teachers or school employees in charge of classrooms shall provide for a brief period of silence for a…
