Neil Postman

Postman entered the world on March 8, 1931, in New York City. He later graduated from State University before earning both his master's degree and an Ed.D from the Teacher's College, Columbia University. Beginning to teach in 1959 at New York University, Postman went on to create a course in media ecology, be appointed as a university professor, and then become chairman of the Department of Culture and Communication during his forty years with the University. An outspoken critic of the technology age and the entertainment industry, Postman lived his life following his beliefs. He avoided computers, rolled down his own car windows, and watched very little television because he didn't want controlling influences to take over his life.

The author of over twenty books, many of which are still in print, and more than 200 magazine and newspaper articles, Postman spoke out for educators to rethink their methods of teaching. Rather than memorizing bits of information, he advocated critical thinking and asking questions. Postman mourned the influence entertainment had on education and the culture. This influential teacher and author passed away from lung cancer on October 5, 2003.