The crisis besetting America is not just an economic or political crisis; something deeper is wreaking havoc across the land, a mercenary and utilitarian attitude that demonstrates little empathy for people's actual well-being, that dismisses imagination and thought, branding passion for knowledge as irrelevant.
The current crisis in America extends beyond economic and political issues; it is rooted in a troubling mindset. This pervasive attitude prioritizes self-interest and practicality over empathy, leading to a disregard for the actual needs and well-being of individuals. It sidelines creative and imaginative thinking, reducing the value of knowledge and passion essential for a fulfilling society.
In "The Republic of Imagination," Azar Nafisi argues that this utilitarian perspective can stifle cultural and intellectual growth. By promoting a lack of concern for deeper human values, it undermines the richness of American life and the potential for thoughtful engagement with the world.