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March 07, 2006
Maxine Greene and Earl Shorris
Categories: Classes
In last night's 600 class, we ended with a discussion about whether Maxine Greene's concept of wide-awakeness (and the art and literature used to reach it) were elitist. Some argued that such a concept and approach were too distant from the realities that poor or otherwise disadvantaged indviduals face. While I don't think Greene sees it that way, I take it as a valid concern.
Earl Shorris, however, beleives that exposing the poor and disenfranchised to art and literature is not only a good thing, but a key part of their economic, political, and personal empowerment. He began a program in New York City, called the Clemente Course, that engaged the poor with works of literature and art. Shorris believes, along with Greene, that personal freedom and empowerment is the key to individual growth in all areas, even "practical" areas such as economic mobility.
Here are some links to investigate further:
An Interview With Earl Shorris
A Clemente Course at Trident Technical College in Charleston
More details about the Clemente Course
A Clemente Course Manual
Posted by Nakia at March 7, 2006 10:47 AM
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