Lesson: Stupid is as Stupid does
In recent years, the rise of anti-intellectualism and a growing disdain for expertise have become increasingly evident worldwide. This phenomenon is often fueled by the rapid spread of misinformation through social media and the internet, where sensationalism frequently trumps facts. Public conversations are increasingly polarized, leading to a rejection of science in favour of personal beliefs, which undermines critical thinking and reasoned debate.
Additionally, there is a growing resentment towards intellectuals and experts, often seen as elitist in their ivory towers or out of touch with everyday concerns. This mindset not only devalues education and expertise but also cultivates a culture that prioritizes emotions and opinions over evidence-based reasoning. Consequently, significant issues like climate change and public health are met with skepticism rather than informed discussion. The trend poses a serious threat to democratic processes and societal progress, highlighting the need for a resurgence in valuing knowledge and critical engagement.
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Example Article
Each conversation topic is based on a theme. In order to help students acquire a basic understanding of that topic, four media articles are provided for them to read. I will never test you on the articles, but I strongly suggest you book lessons far enough in advance to give yourself enough time to properly prepare. The better prepared you are, the more benefit you will receive from our conversations.
Below is an example article for this conversation topic.
