Amusing Ourselves to Death

Amusing Ourselves to Death, is a book written by Neil Postman in 1985. The book has remained in demand and has been used in college classes, mostly because it is accessible, but also in convincing tone. While Postman is undoubtedly an intellectual who thinks in methodical ways, the book is written for the general audience, using many examples that one could relate to, to try and drive home his point. Through just the first few chapters, Postman often approaches ideas in an emotional manner and never tries to bide or get away from upping the ante of the situation that he is describing. Throughout the first few chapters, when Postman proposes a theme, he has a driving focus, backing it up with examples, which is neither implicit or in a way that has a restrained feel. Because Postman’s ideas are clearly presented and backed up by examples, this summary is simply to provide information on the criterion, in which Postman uses.

In the first two chapters, it is interesting to note that Postman avoids any explicit critiques. While Postman does express desperation of the situation, he never offers any form of or suggests that any power structure enforces the ideas that he lays out for its own good. In chapter 1, both Huxley and Orwell explored society’s power and how the different social classes used order to keep a stronghold on their supremacy, Postman does not see people or organizations, but themselves as the bullies. For Postman, both the governing body and the likes are equal victims to which the television media enforces their beliefs.

Postman critiques the drive towards entertainment while using it himself is brought out by him using celebrities as an example. However, this is probably to be expected considering what this book is written about. He is very good at the use of using of popular celebrities and or politicians, for example President Reagan, to drive home his point. By focusing on politician and celebrities, he gives the reader examples,...