In "The Secret Knowledge: On the Dismantling of American Culture," David Mamet reflects on the historical development of humanity's relationship with its environment. He argues that past generations understood this relationship as a fundamental aspect of survival and adaptation. However, his generation has abandoned these time-tested principles in favor of an abstract concept of "freedom," which he critiques as both artificial and poorly defined.

Mamet suggests that this pursuit of freedom has not yielded the expected benefits. Instead, he posits that it has resulted in widespread suffering and discontent. By prioritizing this nebulous idea over practical and grounded approaches to life and the environment, society has strayed from the wisdom of earlier generations, ultimately leading to a disconnect and increased misery among people.