The Transformative Power of Cultural Education: From TikTok to Great Books

The Transformative Power of Cultural Education: From TikTok to Great Books

In a world dominated by social media platforms, it's easy to overlook the profound impact that cultural education can have on individuals. From the rise of TikTok to the enduring influence of great books, these seemingly disparate phenomena share a common thread - the ability to shape our understanding of the world and ourselves.

TikTok, the app that took the world by storm, was initially launched in China as a copycat version of the popular American app musical.ly. Its success can be attributed to its unique approach of allowing users to discover and engage with content from strangers, similar to how one would consume media on YouTube. Unlike traditional social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram, TikTok provides a platform for the creation and curation of valuable content.

Interestingly, the rise of TikTok parallels the success of Instagram's Stories feature, which played a role in Facebook's ability to crush Snapchat. By seamlessly integrating Stories into Instagram, Facebook tapped into the pre-existing user base of the app and created a familiar experience for its users. This highlights the importance of recognizing and adapting to the needs and preferences of a target audience.

However, the impact of cultural education goes beyond social media trends. Great books, such as the Platonic dialogues, have been used to introduce low-income high school students to the philosophic, ethical, and political traditions that have shaped our society. These books provide a source of self-worth and meaning that transcends material limitations and empowers individuals to envision a brighter future for themselves.

What sets great books apart is their ability to illuminate our shared humanity. Dante's works, for example, are not solely valuable for their historical or religious context, but rather for their capacity to resonate with individuals from different time periods and belief systems. The enduring value of these works lies in their ability to speak to the human experience, regardless of the specific social and cultural circumstances in which they were created.

In today's world, general education programs at universities often prioritize breadth over depth, focusing on exposing students to a variety of academic disciplines rather than cultivating a holistic understanding of the human experience. This shift has resulted in a loss of the transformative power that liberal education, which is pursued for its own sake rather than for career advancement, can offer.

It is crucial to recognize that cultural education is not just about providing marketable skills, but about empowering individuals to challenge social hierarchies and contribute to a democratic society. By granting access to the cultural wealth that has traditionally been exclusive to the elite, universities can equip underprivileged individuals with the tools necessary for social mobility and self-advancement.

In conclusion, the success of TikTok and the enduring influence of great books demonstrate the transformative power of cultural education. By embracing platforms that encourage the creation and curation of valuable content, and by prioritizing liberal education that fosters a deep understanding of the human experience, we can empower individuals to challenge societal norms and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive world.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace platforms that prioritize valuable content creation and curation, such as TikTok, to engage with diverse perspectives and expand your understanding of the world.
2. Seek out opportunities for cultural education, whether through reading great books or participating in liberal education programs, to cultivate a deeper understanding of the human experience and challenge societal norms.
3. Advocate for educational institutions to prioritize liberal education that goes beyond career advancement, recognizing its potential to empower individuals and contribute to a more democratic society.