My thoughts on "The Abolition of Man" (Chapter 1) by CS Lewis

C.S. Lewis’ book The Abolition of Man begins by critiquing a book that does exist but he gives it a different name, The Green Book, in order to protect the authors. He explains that the two authors have written this book for an upper level student and probably have intended no harm to the reader of their book. However, Lewis believes there is more to a textbook than meets the eye. Lewis illustrates this by referencing two characters in The Green Book that are discussing a waterfall the authors make remarks that the waterfall is ‘sublime’ which appears to be saying something as fact. But, according to Lewis, in actuality they are talking about their feelings. Lewis goes on to say this causes a problem for the school boy reading the book. That will have implications for him in the future. I think Lewis is trying to make the point that the authors are writing their emotions and not with any intellect, which causes a the school boy to take as literal fact only a point of view.

Lewis continues his argument when he talks about the Tao, a worldview that is placed in the Green Book which has the implications of influencing the young school boy for the rest of his life. I believe Lewis’ point is that authors always write from their Tao (or worldview) and readers should be aware of this especially young students. The future impact on young minds as they grow in intellect and view of the world is tremendous. He also suggests that a person can not make an argument with only intellect or only emotion. There has to be a balance between the two.