The intellectual life of the British working classes
Here’s a depressing read for anyone interested in the future of libraries, reading and the younger generation (and not just that of the U.S.A.).
Far from the internet, email and all manner of digital resources leading to the development of enquiring and open minds thirsting for knowledge, Mark Bauerlein argues that it has led to the complete opposite. In The Dumbest Generation he chronicles how instead we have a nation of narcissistic, peer-orientated ignoramuses.
They’ve learnt how to upload and download, surf and chat, but not how to analyze complex texts, store facts in their heads, learn from history or fully participate in society. Instead of using the net to access the libraries of the world, superficial and self-obsessed chat dominates their lives. Anyone outside their peer group is of no account and their general knowledge is embarrassing.
Perhaps though his greatest condemnation of those of older generations who have pandered to their whims. Fearful of being labelled old-fashioned and out of touch with “da youf” of today, things will only change when everyone regards adolescence as an inferior realm of petty striving, out of touch with their cultural heritage and endangering America’s intellectual and democratic future. As Cicero wrote ‘To be ignorant of what occurred before one was born is to condemn oneself to perpetual childhood’.
As a welcome counterpoint to those who have squandered technological and educational opportunities, is Rose’s book The Intellectual Life of the British Working Classes. An intimidating title, but a heartening and stimulating chronicle of ordinary people from humble backgrounds who saw education as a way of rounding out their characters and rising in society. It’s full of examples of men and women who used books, libraries and reading for self-improvement and intellectual development. What a contrast to the digital oafs of today!
7 October 2008 at 10:02 am
Oddly enough, the description of the shallow youth of today reminds me of a book I just finished…can’t remember the title, but it was about parenting, and the parenting market that ensures from the beginning kids are so overstimulated they’re loosing any ability to entertain themselves. I’ve seen it, though I’m more of that generation than above. I got lucky. Didn’t even have my own radio until I was twelve.
On the plus side, I love libraries! And I’m an English major and analyze everything. Then I get thrown into serious depression whenever I see that commercial for that birth control. In five years…read a book! And those people who don’t read at all.
9 October 2008 at 1:35 pm
Firstly, I wonder if the book you are refering to is :Under pressure :how the epidemic of hyper-parenting is endangering childhood by Carl Honore.
If I was a young person and read the statement from a librarian about “digital oafs” I would be reluctant to ever set foot inside a library again!
11 October 2008 at 11:43 am
Actually, the book is called “Parenting, Inc.: How We are Sold on $800 Strollers, Fetal Education, Baby Sign Language, Sleeping Coaches, Toddler Couture, and Diaper Wipe Warmers–and What It Means for Our Children” by Pamela Paul. I believe she wrote that she was a journalist.