Computers Quote by Neil Postman
““What we need to consider about the computer has nothing to do with its efficiency as a teaching tool. We need to know in what ways it is altering our conception of learning, and how, in conjunction with television, it undermines the old idea of school. Who cares how many boxes of cereal can be sold via television? We need to know if television changes our conception of reality, the relationship of the rich to the poor, the idea of happiness itself. A preacher who confines himself to considering how a medium can increase his audience will miss the significant question: In what sense do new media alter what is meant by religion, by church, even by God? And if the politician cannot think beyond the next election, then we must wonder about what new media do to the idea of political organization and to the conception of citizenship.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Amusing Ourselves to Death, Neil Postman, 1985
He argues that media shape our perception of reality, values, and institutions, not just their functional efficiency.
In simple terms: Media change how we think about learning, religion, politics, and society.
Key Takeaway
Examine how new media reshape core concepts.
Themes
media influence
culture
education
politics
religion
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
theoretical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- classroom teaching
- political campaigns
- religious practice
- media consumption
Key Concepts
technological determinism
critical theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your preferred medium affect your worldview?
- What values are reinforced by the media you use?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all media have equal impact regardless of content.
