Amusing Ourselves to Death (1985)
A classic critique of how television turns public discourse into entertainment, weakening politics, news, and education.
Read more →Books by Neil Postman
Below is a curated collection of Neil Postman’s most influential works, each with a short summary to guide you. Click “Read more” to explore detailed pages.
Technopoly (1992)
Examines a society that surrenders to technology—where efficiency and metrics become core values, and culture is reshaped accordingly.
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The Disappearance of Childhood (1982 / Vintage 1994)
Argues that modern media erodes the distinction between childhood and adulthood, with consequences for family, education, and culture.
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Teaching as a Subversive Activity (1969/1970)
Advocates for questioning-based learning over rote memorization, promoting critical thinking and meaningful education.
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The End of Education (1995)
Argues that education must rest on a “narrative” or set of values—without which it risks losing direction and meaning.
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Building a Bridge to the 18th Century (1999 / Vintage 2000)
Revisits Enlightenment values—reason, literacy, humanism—to guide us through the disruptions of modern digital life.
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Crazy Talk, Stupid Talk (1976)
A dissection of distorted language and illogical rhetoric in public discourse, aiming to cultivate critical media awareness.
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How to Watch TV News (1992, revised edition)
Guides readers in interpreting TV news formats, biases, and agenda setting—helping build media literacy.
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Conscientious Objections (1988)
A collection of essays on language, technology, and education—both critical and hopeful in tone.
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Teaching as a Conserving Activity (1979)
Argues education should not only transform but preserve valuable cultural traditions amid change.
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