Dumbth: And 81 Ways to Make Americans Smarter

by Steve Allen

Book Overview

Dumbth (pron. dum-th) adj: a tendency toward muddleheadedness, or willful stupidity appearing in all segments of American life.Updated, expanded with 20 new ways to think better, and highlighted with... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0879755393
• ISBN13: 9780879755393
• Release Date: January 1989
• Publisher: Prometheus Books
• Length: 359 Pages
• Weight: 1.52 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 6.3" x 9.4"

Customer Reviews

101 REAL points of light

I've been a fan of Steve Allen's writing since the "Meeting of Minds" series in the 1980s, and was saddened and almost angry that he died and left us with one fewer candle in the darkness. I have the unhappy feeling, though, that this book is preaching to the choir; anyone who is likely to pick it up is probably already disheartened by the full-blown Dumbth-ridden society we live in. I'd love to give it as gifts to a few folks who could benefit, but they wouldn't be likely to read it (because they don't read, period) and wouldn't recognize themselves in it. I, however, recognize myself plenty in this book, and have resolved at the least to become more conscious of what I'm doing, thinking, and taking in. I was a bit put off by Allen's frequent referencing to his own works in the "101" ways" section, but not enough to put the book down.

Steve Allen tells it like it is

This book is one I give as a gift to people. First because it is so nice to see an author who has the maturity to tell his readers that we are a nation of dumb people. People who have lost the art of critical thinking. Some don't like the fact he is so honest. But read his book, then become observant of the world around you. I venture that within hours you will begin to see what he is talking about. This is a really great book all about common sense or the lost art of common sense.

Give the book a try

His suggestions are wise and can be put to good use. What some consider to be angry babble is nothing more than old fashion comedy. Those people seriously need to lighten up!

An Excellent Captivating book

As an old fan of Steve Allen, I clearly remember his clever comedy and excellent wit from which many of today's hosts derive their ideas. This book shows a more serious side of Steve Allen who presents ways you can improve the quality of life in an easy to read manner, giving helpful examples. It's a self help book that doesn't read like a self help book. Although this book shows some of Steve's biases and strong personal opinions, I believe this book deserves a top rating for his contribution to helping us understand ourselves better. Read it with an open mind. As for the biases, Steve has the courage to put in writing some of who he is, whether we like it or not. It's an insight into the author as well.

Dumbth should be required reading for every adult.

"Dumbth" by Steve Allen is a frank look at the deteriation of efficiency and intelligence in our society and what can be done about it. This is one of the most important books I have ever read. The book assisted me in recognizing those areas in myself that require improvement and gave me concrete ways to work on it. I encourage people to read this book.