I really enjoyed this book.

This is a continuation of the author’s previous book (The Dumbest Generation - 2008), and it was a very satisfying sequel.

The first book is mostly about academic achievement. Back in the 90s and 00s, practically everyone believed that the “digital natives” would benefit tremendously from new technologies and the internet. Mark was arguing back then that academic performance was not reflecting this so-called golden era of technology-based education. He and other critics were denounced in every form of media, but time has proven them right.

This sequel isn’t about academics, as that point was already thoroughly made in the first book. This book is about how the lack of education in the Great Traditions (literature, history, art, philosophy, etc.) has left the millennial generation unable to handle criticism, use logic, understand others, and in turn be good citizens or employees or anything useful.

My summary there does not do the thesis justice at all. This book is not short but is very focused on expanding these ideas and I think he did it perfectly. Unlike the first book, this one hardly discussed technology - this was about “intelligence” from the perspective of culture.

I couldn’t agree more with this book. It was comforting just to think that I’m not crazy for believing that this lack of culture has been profoundly detrimental to my generation, the ones growing up now, and our collective future. Years ago I attempted to become familiar with the Great books and art and philosophy of the past, but I realized quickly that no one my age cared. It wasn’t useful for any conversation with anyone under 40 years old (now 50+). And there aren’t any Great works anymore, at all, despite the incredible talent available today. This is bad news, and you will understand why if you read the book.

I only saved one passage from the book, which somewhat sums it up: “There is no tradition for you - you have no usable past - no greatness to revere - you’re on your own.”

Indeed. Strongly recommend reading both books.