A reminder---- I wanted to say something about the framework I am assuming in contemplating the choices. First, I presume that our century has been characterized by two titanic struggles, the first with fascism, and more especially Nazism, with its virulent racial theories; and the second with Communism, especially as embodied in the Soviet Union, with its virulent theories of class conflict. If these are the central conflicts, then those instrumental in ensuring victory against these foes are among the greats or near greats of this century.
Second, the rise of technology, maturing of industrialization, and urbanization of the West has altered the prospects for human beings profoundly, promising a time when the greater mass of humanity will be free of "bucolic idiocy" and endless drudgery, and will have the means and leisure to make significant life choices. Therefore, those who were instrumental in the basic science, inventions, and industrial and economic organization permitting us to see this light at the end of the tunnel for the "common man" must be counted very significant.
Third, the rise of popular culture, embodying democratic notions, liberating people to create congenial environments for themselves, providing exposure to a broad cultural milieu through entertainment, and spreading "Americanism", that is, the culture of modernity, throughout the globe, has mainly been a blessing, and a means of preparing people for the attenuation of traditional society that modern development brings. Thus, innovators, creators, and performers in popular culture who especially helped to define it are exceptionally important.
Fourth, the fate of elite culture, which is important in the development of the sensibilities of those who are likeliest to attain positions of influence in our society, is no small matter, as it relates to the preservations of standards, and therefore those with who are among the important writers and artists of the century merit scrutiny, and, in some cases, inclusion. |
