In a recent article, the author describes the "dark headspace" that many feel when consuming a steady diet of negative media about threats to democracy, dysfunction in politics, global crises, and climate change. They have found relief from this anxiety during holidays when they don't have access to cable news channels. However, the author argues we can't just ignore civic responsibility – we need to "wake up" and reengage, especially with the 2024 election approaching here in the US (aside: isn’t it always “election season” here?).
There is growing credibility to concerns about authoritarianism and threats to democracy that were once dismissed as hype. This resonates not just with political writers but invested citizens. Attempts to shield children from questioning or uncertainty around political instability are misguided. Groups like Moms for Liberty push this, whipping up anxieties about state schools to preserve their privilege.
Whilst teachers may be inclined to avoid confronting policy issues and negative opinions, it's important they help students wrestle with difficult questions safely through literature, history, and current affairs. When No Child Left Behind was passed, teachers were terrified by loss of control over the curriculum and high-stakes testing determining teacher quality. But over 20-odd years, they have largely absorbed these changes. This should be a cautionary tale about the danger of living in a "dark headspace" without taking action.
The AutSide is a reader-supported publication. To support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
Dark Headspace - and Teaching
Dark Headspace - and Teaching
Dark Headspace - and Teaching
In a recent article, the author describes the "dark headspace" that many feel when consuming a steady diet of negative media about threats to democracy, dysfunction in politics, global crises, and climate change. They have found relief from this anxiety during holidays when they don't have access to cable news channels. However, the author argues we can't just ignore civic responsibility – we need to "wake up" and reengage, especially with the 2024 election approaching here in the US (aside: isn’t it always “election season” here?).
There is growing credibility to concerns about authoritarianism and threats to democracy that were once dismissed as hype. This resonates not just with political writers but invested citizens. Attempts to shield children from questioning or uncertainty around political instability are misguided. Groups like Moms for Liberty push this, whipping up anxieties about state schools to preserve their privilege.
Whilst teachers may be inclined to avoid confronting policy issues and negative opinions, it's important they help students wrestle with difficult questions safely through literature, history, and current affairs. When No Child Left Behind was passed, teachers were terrified by loss of control over the curriculum and high-stakes testing determining teacher quality. But over 20-odd years, they have largely absorbed these changes. This should be a cautionary tale about the danger of living in a "dark headspace" without taking action.
The AutSide is a reader-supported publication. To support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.