In her book "The Republic of Imagination," Azar Nafisi discusses the contrast between private schooling and public education, particularly regarding the arts and humanities. She suggests that families with the means to choose private schools can ensure their children receive a well-rounded education, rich in art, music, and literature. This privilege allows them to bypass the decreasing emphasis on these subjects that often accompanies the push for efficiency in public school curriculums.

Nafisi points out that children in private schools are somewhat insulated from the educational reforms that prioritize practicality over creativity. This shift in focus, where the arts may be marginalized, poses a threat to a comprehensive educational experience for many students in the public system. The commentary underscores the broader implications of educational inequality, revealing how access to a nurturing learning environment can significantly influence a child's intellectual development.