Ignorance is Bliss

By Merritt Blong

As a teen in the 21st century, we are exposed to things unlike the world has ever seen. Is it harder though? I believe so. Never before our generation has news been made so available, or “social media” been made so acceptable. As young people we are forming new perspectives and outlooks but should we have access to so many means of influence? Will we be firm in our beliefs as we age or will we be easily swayed?

Take a look at the 19th century. No access to federal news, nobody knew about things happening on the other side of the world; but if they did, they certainly were not 16. This new way of life is scary. People live in fear and sadness to see the world the way it is. With one click, a person so young and easily influenced, can learn all there is about a terrorist group or a devastating disease. Ignorance is in fact bliss and we as modern day people have very little room for it.

So what might be a solution? As young people, we need to be asking lots of questions, instead of accepting everything we read or are told. Take it with a grain of salt and compare it to what you know. Recognize social media can change a person’s image. Not all new knowledge is bad, necessarily, but it does change you and who you are becoming unlike the people of the past.

 About the Author

Merritt Blong is a part-time Sophomore at Orion High school and Midland Classical Academy. She enjoys playing Basketball for MCA, jiu-jitsu, guitar, writing, reading, and most importantly eating!