I teacher an Honors World Literature course (11th grade) and our first unit aims to identify what makes us human. In the process, we read The Epic of Gilgamesh, use it to identify some traits we believe are universal (need for companionships, an awareness of mortality, compassion, etc.) and then read/discuss/write about how these qualities may or may not be at risk in today's world.
I used this article last year and am in the process of re-reading it and planning my lesson for it. Reading it now I'm remembering why I loved it so much.
Funny side note: I may or may not show pictures of our dear father and his cropparoos as an example of localism.
Anyway. It hits on a number of things -- the roots of culture, humanity's limits, the perversion of virtue -- and it is a good slap in the face.
If you have the time, I'd suggest reading it. Also, I thought this blog could use more action.
Technology, Culture, and Virtue
3 comments:
OMG, I haven't read it yet but just checked out the title and it's by Patrick Deneen!! There is a very select list of people who I will always read. Deneen (now at Notre Dame after escaping from Georgetown) is one of them. Maybe later I will give the rest of the list, but for now I will read this and get back later. I repeat, I haven't read it, but I know it will be good.
OMG Sean, who knew?
Lisette, you kiss up.
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