E.D. Hirsch Jr. proposes the idea of cultural literacy, which is a shared body of knowledge that allows people to fully comprehend written and spoken communication. He believes this knowledge is essential for national understanding. Critics argue that Hirsch's approach can emphasize memorizing facts over developing thinking skills and has a Eurocentric bias. Recent studies have shown promise for Hirsch's Core Knowledge curriculum in improving reading abilities, but debates continue around whose knowledge should be included and how it fits with reforms like Common Core standards.