The article discusses the current threats to America's treasured public institutions, including national parks, libraries, and arts organizations, which are facing severe funding cuts and political pressure under the Trump administration. The author argues that these attacks, rooted in a political strategy to generate division among Americans, undermine public enlightenment and engage citizen manipulation. Drawing from the insights of Hannah Arendt, it emphasizes the importance of shared cultural and natural experiences in uniting people, contrasting the unifying power of arts and nature with divisive political strategies. Ultimately, the piece warns about the dangers of undermining these essential societal pillars.
"Take away natural beauty, free access to books and support for the arts, and you end up with a less enlightened, more ignorant and less engaged public."
"When you're admiring a redwood or gazing at the Grand Canyon, you're neither Republican nor Democrat. The same goes for listening to a beautiful piece of new music or choosing library books to read with your children."
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