Should We Stop Writing?
Philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau claims that humans have been corrupted by artificial systems. He believes that a utopia would resemble a completely natural world, free of rules and manufactured disturbances. If you want the source of where this is from, check the youtube link here.
He says that artificial systems include writing, and states that speech is a much better form of communication. Here are his arguments:
1. Speech is the fastest form of conveying a message
People simply blurt out what they have to say and it gets almost instantly recognized and understood. Instead of using external resources i.e. a pen and paper, one can easily transmit a piece of information.
2. Writing separates the sender and the receiver.
Writing is a form of communication that uses a third agent, paper, to connect two individuals. This system feels weird because it severs the deep connection that people have when they talk to one another in person.
3. Expressiveness is sacrificed for the sake of precision
Writing not only focuses too much on grammar but there are many limitations that make it inferior compared to speaking. For instance, writing lacks facial expressions, physical voice tones, and nuances made of small inflections when speaking.
Takeaway
I personally disagree with Rousseau. As mentioned in the video, Rousseau’s biggest contradiction is the fact that he (himself) conveyed all of his arguments through written text. However, the biggest message here is that we, as writers, must try to cover the “drawbacks of writing” by making our writing better. Let’s revisit each of the points and see how we can reinforce our writing:
- Make your writing “faster” by making it more concise
- Active and vivid writing can cure the feeling of separation between the writer and the reader
- Try to find your own tone in writing and use specific words that most accurately depict how you want your ideas to be told
Thank you!
