Final answer:
Beneatha and George's argument in 'A Raisin in the Sun' centers on differing views of education. Beneatha values education for personal growth, while George sees it as a means to economic success. Their debate reflects historical discussions within the African American community and highlights contrasting aspirations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The disagreement between Beneatha and George regarding studying or education in the play A Raisin in the Sun is rooted in their differing views on the purpose and value of education.
Beneatha is passionate about learning for the sake of self-improvement and personal fulfillment, while George represents a more practical approach, valuing education mainly as a means to an end - economic success and social status.
In George's view, Beneatha's pursuit of education for its own sake is frivolous and unimportant compared to the practicalities of assimilating into prosperous society.
Their argument is indicative of broader discussions within the African American community about the purpose of education, reflecting historical debates such as those between Booker T. Washington, who advocated for vocational training, and W. E. B. Du Bois, who supported a liberal arts education.
The play doesn't resolve their conflict conclusively but uses it to highlight the characters' different outlooks and aspirations, as well as the broader societal issues that shape their lives.