I guess I should clarify a bit.
I agree people's beliefs, thinking system, values etc. CAN be changed by reading fiction, watching movies etc.
I just think people should strive to be more intellectual and not let fictional work/entertainment inform their beliefs, the way they think about the world etc.
That should be shaped by factual information. Non-fiction books, history books, documentaries, news sources (not op eds or Limbaugh/Olbermann!) etc.
As you say, knowledge is power. Much better than the knowledge come from factual sources and not fictional ones!
Fiction has value, any reading can improve verbal IQ etc. But the main benefit of that should be used in building one's intellect from putting those skills to use in acquiring and processing factual information, thinking critically about it etc. IMO.
|