Heroes Not Zombies

I read a lot. I’ve always read a lot. I have a LOT of books. I’ve never counted them, quality not quantity after all! So, perhaps it was no surprise that I noticed this statue last time I was in Nîmes.

I can’t think of any other statues of people reading. Do you know any? Actually maybe I should call this a sculpture rather than a statue because I don’t think it was a commemoration of a particular person (correct me if you know better).

Storytelling and sharing knowledge must be two of the most fundamental characteristics of human beings. Books, of course, are one of the most powerful ways of sharing – of telling stories, expressing ourselves, learning what life is like for others, exercising our imagination, creating a shared web of knowledge and ideas.

Dictators and zealots have a history of attacking books, destroying libraries and/or burning and banning particular books. I suppose that speaks to the power of books and learning. Those who want to control others often end up trying to control what they read.

These days reading has become even more widespread, not just through books, but through social media, newspapers, magazines, hey, even blogs!

All of these channels can, of course, be weaponised, used to spread propaganda, to undermine and disempower as much as to spread knowledge, joy and experiences. That’s why I think education is so important. We have to teach our children, not just how to read, but how to discern, how to think critically, how to be aware of the power of words.

I do think a healthy, vibrant, flourishing society is one where everyone is well housed, well nourished and well educated. How bizarre that such basics seem so utopian.

Still, I’m an advocate for better societies, where the instinct for care and cooperation is given more attention and energy than the instinct for aggression and competition.