Keller Postman was an influential American educator, writer, and media critic. His work on the impact of mass media on education and society has had a profound impact on the field of education and continues to resonate today.
Postman’s Early Life and Career
Keller Postman was born in New York City in 1922. He attended Columbia University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1943 and a master’s degree in 1947. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, Postman began his teaching career at New York University in 1949.
Postman’s Critique of Mass Media
Postman was a vocal critic of the role of mass media in American society. He argued that mass media, particularly television, was a powerful force that was shaping the way people thought and behaved. He believed that television was a “vast wasteland” that was eroding the ability of people to think critically and independently.
In his seminal work, “Amusing Ourselves to Death” (1985), Postman argued that the rise of mass media had led to a “trivialization of culture.” He believed that television was promoting a culture of entertainment and distraction that was undermining the ability of people to engage in serious intellectual pursuits.
Postman’s Vision for Education
Postman believed that education was essential for creating a society of informed and engaged citizens. He argued that schools should focus on developing students’ critical thinking skills and their ability to understand complex issues. He also believed that schools should promote a love of learning and a lifelong commitment to intellectual growth.
Postman’s ideas about education have had a significant impact on the College Board. The College Board is a non-profit organization that develops and administers standardized tests and curricula for college admissions. Postman was a member of the College Board’s Commission on Educational Issues from 1965 to 1970. He helped to develop the College Board’s “Statement on the Goals of College Education,” which emphasized the importance of critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Postman’s Legacy
Keller Postman died in 2003. His work continues to be read and debated by educators and scholars around the world. His insights into the impact of mass media on society are more relevant than ever in the 21st century.
Postman’s Quotes
“The medium is the message.”
“We are amused to death.”
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”
Tables
| Table 1: Keller Postman’s Major Works |
|—|—|
| Year | Title |
| 1961 | Teaching as a Subversive Activity |
| 1969 | The Schoolbook Story |
| 1985 | Amusing Ourselves to Death |
| Table 2: Postman’s Critique of Mass Media |
|—|—|
| Argument | Evidence |
| Television is a “vast wasteland.” | Television programs are often mindless and trivial. |
| Mass media is eroding the ability of people to think critically. | People are spending more time watching television and less time reading and discussing important issues. |
| Mass media is promoting a culture of entertainment and distraction. | People are more interested in being entertained than in learning about the world around them. |
| Table 3: Postman’s Vision for Education |
|—|—|
| Goal | Strategy |
| Develop students’ critical thinking skills. | Teach students how to analyze information and evaluate arguments. |
| Foster a love of learning. | Create a classroom environment that is stimulating and engaging. |
| Promote a lifelong commitment to intellectual growth. | Encourage students to pursue their interests outside of the classroom. |
| Table 4: Postman’s Impact on the College Board |
|—|—|
| Contribution | Impact |
| Helped to develop the College Board’s “Statement on the Goals of College Education” | Emphasized the importance of critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. |
| Served on the College Board’s Commission on Educational Issues | Helped to shape the College Board’s policies and programs. |
| Was a vocal advocate for educational reform | Inspired the College Board to continue to innovate and improve its services. |