Reading Response(Week 2):
In this reading, Arnold defines culture as a way to get out of the present difficulties that mankind faces and also mentions that everyone should be able to receive the 'best which has been thought and said'. He also says that culture will create a stream of fresh thoughts and ideas over the things which we are staunchly following. Adding to this, he points out that the books which does not allow the fresh stream of thoughts are considered to be futile.
In this reading, Arnold defines culture as a way to get out of the present difficulties that mankind faces and also mentions that everyone should be able to receive the 'best which has been thought and said'. He also says that culture will create a stream of fresh thoughts and ideas over the things which we are staunchly following. Adding to this, he points out that the books which does not allow the fresh stream of thoughts are considered to be futile.
The main idea that he tries to feed through this is that, the 'social idea' where with the modern spirit, we should try to bring in equality among the masses. He also talks about three different classes and how culture works differently for all kinds of people. The different classes as he mentions are, Barbarians- the high class,aristocracy; Philistines- middle class,Populace-lower class.
He also specifically uses an idiom "Sweetness and Light" when he talks about culture, as he says culture has a passion for sweetness and light. The term stands imperfect if it doesn't reach the un-kindled masses. These are the marked happy moments in one's life. In my opinion this can be achieved when we become culture and when their exists perfection as denoted by Arnold.
He concludes by saying that culture is needed to repress anarchy and it is the most resolute enemy of anarchy.
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