02691cam a22003853u 4500 2481 UtSlPG 20260610133058.0 m cr n 260607r2001||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 LC Nadin, Mihai, 1938- The Civilization of Illiteracy Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2001 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Copyright 1997 Release date is 2001-01-01 "The Civilization of Illiteracy" by Mihai Nadin is a critical examination of literacy and its implications in contemporary society, likely written in the late 20th century. The book explores the decline of traditional literacy in the context of rapid technological advancement and cultural change, analyzing how these shifts impact human behavior, communication, and overall societal structure. Nadin presents the argument that we are entering a new civilization characterized by "illiteracy," which transcends the conventional understanding of literacy, raising questions about the skills, values, and norms that shape our daily lives. The opening of the text sets the stage by discussing the overwhelming acceleration of information production in modern times, juxtaposed with the diminishing emphasis on traditional literacy skills. It introduces contrasting characters, such as Zizi, a contemporary hairdresser, and historical figures like Melanchton, to illustrate the differences in knowledge and engagement with their respective worlds. Nadin emphasizes how modern individuals often prioritize superficial information and efficiency over in-depth understanding, as evidenced by Zizi’s shallow interactions that reflect a broader societal trend towards consumerism. The author expresses a blend of concern and curiosity about the evolving nature of communication and personal identity in a rapidly changing environment, indicating that the shift to a civilization of illiteracy is both an indispensable and inevitable phenomenon. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Literacy -- Social aspects Sociolinguistics Technology and civilization Technology -- Social aspects Computers and literacy Social history Information society Oral history https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/2481 44562 44562