The state has an interest in educating its citizens. There are a number of reasons a nation could benefit from attending to the education of its citizens, creating a state interest in public education. Many of them are economic, and contribute to the growth of industry and health of communities:

• More people generating more value increases GDP, compounded over time
• Increased entrepreneurship
• Increased innovation, and dynamism in the economy along with it
• Improved public health and saving cost on health care
• Longer life spans means more working years at greater seniority levels, contributing a lot of surplus value to the economy
• Increased incomes provide more free time to contribute to civic life and be informed voters
• Decreasing the number of “Lost Einsteins” — talented individuals who do not get a chance to shine their lights and contribute their gifts

We all have an interest in investing in the development of our human capital, because it is rational to do so. It will pay many dividends over time, both directly and indirectly.