Philistine and genius

by Boris Sidis

"Philistine and Genius" by Boris Sidis is a critical treatise on education and societal values written in the early 20th century. The work delineates the dangers of philistinism—characterized by mediocrity, blind obedience, and stifling conformity—while advocating for the nurturing of genius and independent thought in children. Through his examination, Sidis argues that the character of a society depends fundamentally on the nature of its education, and he emphasizes the necessity for individuals to recognize and confront evil in its many forms to cultivate genuine human progress. At the start of the text, Sidis addresses parents and educators, urging them to take seriously their responsibilities in shaping the future of their children and society. He reflects on the significant impact of early education and asserts that the psychological environment in which children are raised influences their development and future capabilities. Early childhood education should encourage critical thinking and a love of knowledge, rather than subjecting children to rote learning and blind obedience. Sidis critiques the contemporary educational system for suppressing genius and fostering mediocrity, laying the groundwork for discussing the implications of this societal mediocrity in the context of broader historical events, including the looming threats of war in Europe.