For starters, all I can say is "Wow!" I may not agree with author Neil Postman, but this is a book I am going to have a hard time putting down for several reasons. I can picture him standing at a pulpit, preaching, seriously. I can also picture him walking around carrying a sign that reads, "The end of the world is coming!" or "It's the end of the world as we know it!" Yes, it is a mistake to assume that technology has a one-sided effect. Every technology comes as both a blessing and a burden; not either-or, but this-and-that (pages 4-5). Mr. Postman claims to be open minded, however, he seems to be more of a technophobe than middle-of-the-road. He's very leary of technology and all technological advances, and he ever-so-subtly gets his "digs" in toward anyone who feels otherwise--mainly, the technophiles.
Mr. Postman feels that technology has invaded our culture, and goes on to write that computers have increased the power of "large scale organizations", but wonders to what extent computer technology has been an advantage to the masses. He doesn't feel that technology has been beneficial to people such as steelworkers, vegetable store owners, teachers, mechanics, musicians, bricklayers, dentists, etc, and most of the rest into "whose lives the computer now intrudes." I don't even know what to say to this! I'm guessing that he has a growing stockpile of water bottles and other non-perishables somewhere in his cellar. He believes that technology re-defines absolutely everything from religion, family, politics, truth, privacy and intelligence--but not for the better. He feels it is dangerous, and basically that we, as a society, are now less educated because of technology changing the way things were done years ago, back when people had to...think.
In my opinion, Mr. Postman has made a few valid points, but quite a few more ignorant statements so far. Yet, I still find him fascinating. (I wonder what's up with that??!!)
Nancy,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about Postman! I found him very dramatic, but his writing is very compelling. What a power he has, if only he wasn't so frightened.
Nancy,
ReplyDeleteI really liked the way you portrayed Postman because while I was reading this, I could not help but laugh and agree with you! Postman is such a great writer that it's almost hard to think he is wrong or not making the best of arguments, even if I know that I don't agree with him!
Hi Nancy,
ReplyDeleteI definately agree with you that Postman seems like a technophobe. But I must add that technology is definately changing our culture. I'm sure you will see it with your children. My kids automatically assume there is no other source for research other than the computer. "Go to the library? What for?" And the "definition" of education (as Postman states)is changing. For example, online degrees are convenient, but it is not the same education experience as sitting in a class for three hours discussing and debating a topic. I think we may have some difficultly sustaining our traditional values. :)