Why Should We Read Neil Postman?

Posted on 06/18/2025
|

In this episode, Carl and Todd are joined by Francis Maier, a senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, to discuss the influential works of Neil Postman. They explore Postman's critiques of technology, particularly in relation to culture and education, and how these ideas resonate with contemporary issues. 



Until people understand that they have the personal responsibility of reform and conversion, there isn't going to be any change in the culture. – Fran Maier



From the effects of social media on anger and despair to the importance of personal responsibility in navigating technology, this conversation delves into the complexities of modern life through the lens of Postman's insights.



We are pleased to offer three copies of Neil Postman’s book, Amusing Ourselves to Death, to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of Penguin Publishing. Enter here (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1GDfokV-vaqWZ47rR9ZS2aO4hJwBSjJuVMrFdmOU6TiU/edit) for the opportunity to win.





Show Notes:



Amusing Ourselves to Death (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/297276/amusing-ourselves-to-death-by-neil-postman/) by Neil Postman



Technopoly (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/132784/technopoly-by-neil-postman/) by Neil Postman



The End of Education (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/132786/the-end-of-education-by-neil-postman/) by Neil Postman



Building a Bridge to the 18th Century (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/132775/building-a-bridge-to-the-18th-century-by-neil-postman/) by Neil Postman



Essays by Neil Postman:




• “The Parable of Ring Around the Collar”


• “Social Science As Moral Philosophy”




“In the Kingdom of Noise (https://eppc.org/publication/in-the-kingdom-of-noise/) ,” article by Francis Maier