IT Neil Postman and the thermostatic role of school

Abstract

This article examines the dialectics between “apocalyptics” and “integrated”, starting from a rereading of Neil Postman's Teaching as a Conserving Activity and maintaining the relevance of Author’s “thermostatic” view of education in front of today rapid technological change. Postman, an advocate for subversive teaching during the 60's, now emphasizes the need for schools to counterbalance the pervasive influence of mass media, particularly of TV. This “thermostatic” role involves conserving tradition when society overemphasizes innovation, and vice versa. The article explores, as well, the implications of Postman’s view in the age of artificial intelligence, highlighting the importance of language education, critical thinking, and cultivation of shared narratives to address the challenges posed by the Infosphere.