Response to Mark Edmundson's Essay

I have alot of thoughts about Mark Edmundson's essay, way too much to put in a single blog post, but here goes. I think he overgeneralizes about us "spoiled college kids" and oversimplifies about how we live and are treated. However, I do agree with him that we are more sheltered than previous generations. We have grown up with our eyes shielded from many things in the world. He also talks about a lack of diversity, which I completely disagree with. Our freshman class alone at JMU represents over 90 countries. I don't see a lack of diversity there, which is another example of him overgeneralizing. He also talks about a 'commercializing' of college education. This is an interesting concept. He talks about students being "customers" that professors are afraid to challenge and hold responsible. He discusses American society's fear of failure due to competition, so therefore universities sell themselves. They "advertise" beautiful campuses, delicious food, and a friendly atmosphere, among other things. But isn't school about getting a higher education? He states that college is simply a "club Med", where college allows students to get what they buy. He believes society blames parents, administrators, and professors, instead of the real antagonist- the students. Therefore, he states, it is up to the students to change, and I completely agree with him. We shouldn't be afraid to test or challenge ourselves. We shouldn't be afraid to express ourselves. We need to be challenged so that we can succeed in our future relationships and careers.