The Cocktail Party Contrarian: The Anti-Experts
I don’t blame the 18-year-old for her dilettantish efforts to ‘make the world a better place.’ I blame the adults who run programs like these, and who encourage young people to take serious matters so unseriously.

I was speaking to a young woman the other day who told me she was a member of a citywide youth commission on “equity” and “solidarity.” When I asked her what that meant, she seemed startled. Some words are designed to be conversation stoppers. If someone is an “activist,” or fighting for “human rights” or “inclusion,” if she believes in “diversity” or wants to “change the world,” we are all supposed to understand the meaning and the mission.
Please check your email.
A verification code has been sent to
Didn't get a code? Click to resend.
To continue reading, please select:
Enter your email to read for FREE
Get 1 FREE article
Join the Sun for a PENNY A DAY
$0.01/day for 60 days
Cancel anytime
100% ad free experience
Unlimited article and commenting access
Full annual dues ($120) billed after 60 days