What’s The Matter with College? an Analysis

College is often seen as the pathway to success, a place where young adults can expand their knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for a successful career. However, in his essay “What’s the Matter with College?”, Rick Perlstein presents a critical analysis of the state of higher education in America. Perlstein argues that college has lost its central role in shaping the cultural and political landscape of the country, and has become more of a consumer-driven experience rather than a transformative and intellectual one. This essay will explore Perlstein’s argument and provide a comprehensive analysis of the issues he raises.

The Consumerization of College

One of the central arguments in Perlstein’s essay is the idea that college has become a consumer-driven experience. He points out that students today are more concerned with the amenities and social aspects of college, rather than the intellectual and transformative experiences it offers. Perlstein argues that the focus on consumerism has led to a decline in the intellectual and cultural significance of college, as students are more concerned with getting a degree as a means to an end, rather than immersing themselves in the intellectual and cultural experiences that college has to offer.

The Decline of Campus Activism

Perlstein also discusses the decline of campus activism and the role that college once played in shaping the political and cultural landscape of the country. He argues that in the 1960s and 1970s, college campuses were hotbeds of political and social activism, and played a central role in shaping the cultural and political discourse of the country. However, Perlstein contends that in recent years, college campuses have become apolitical and devoid of the kind of activism and intellectual fervor that once characterized them. He attributes this decline to the consumer-driven nature of college, arguing that students are more concerned with their own individual success and comfort, rather than engaging in the kind of activism and intellectual discourse that once defined college campuses.

The Impact of Technology

Another key aspect of Perlstein’s analysis is the impact of technology on the college experience. He argues that the rise of the internet and social media has fundamentally changed the way students engage with the college experience, and has contributed to the decline of the traditional college experience. Perlstein contends that technology has made it easier for students to stay connected to their friends and families, and has diminished the significance of the college campus as a central hub of social and intellectual activity. He also argues that the rise of online education and the availability of information through the internet has made the traditional college experience less essential, and has contributed to the decline of the intellectual and cultural significance of college.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rick Perlstein’s essay “What’s the Matter with College?” presents a critical analysis of the state of higher education in America. He argues that college has become a consumer-driven experience, devoid of the intellectual and cultural significance it once held. Perlstein also discusses the decline of campus activism and the impact of technology on the college experience. While Perlstein’s analysis presents a compelling critique of the current state of higher education, it is important to consider the complexities and nuances of the issue. College is still a place of intellectual and cultural significance for many students, and it continues to play a central role in shaping the future leaders of our society. However, Perlstein’s essay raises important questions about the changing nature of the college experience and the need to reevaluate the purpose and significance of higher education in today’s society.