simfish

Edit above:
that a nation built entirely on self-study may not be the nation with the most scientific output/net utility.

Eh, life's not perfect. At least the state schools could actually make it easier for their top students to pursue their studies rigorously. In some ways, they do - with their own high-level classes. But these students may not be as motivated to learn as much as they do in top universities. But then the ones who really do have a personality suited for scientific research will still find their opps in state schools. Eh, complex issue.

It could also be made easier if so many people didn't trust the social skills/motivation levels of homeschoolers/unschoolers.