The Washington Post recently asked several educational leaders for their views on what courses all college students should have to take. Interestingly, many of them mentioned courses in line with ABB's recommendations.
Margaret Spellings, the current U.S. Secretary of Education, said, "American History, so that students have an appreciation for the events that made our great democracy what it is today, and a rigorous writing class to ensure they can effectively convey ideas, thoughts and concepts."
Donna Shalala, the president of the University of Miami and a former member of President Clinton's cabinet, also mentioned history--as well as English composition (noting that her course in this area "had a huge impact on my life") and foreign language.
And Cornell president David Skorton--whose choice of a school to lead we won't hold against him--joined President Shalala in mentioning history and foreign language, as well as literature.